New England Colonist Exterior (likely the Jethro Coffin House)
Painting on paper • Anonymous American School; likely a regionalist or architectural illustrator.
Style & Movement
American Realism / Regionalism
Medium & Technique
Watercolor and gouache on paper; employs wet-on-wet technique for the sky and dry brush techniques for the detailed shingle textures of the house.
Creation Period
Mid-20th Century (circa 1940-1960)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 8 x 10 inches (sight); Landscape format.
Subject Description
A two-story saltbox-style colonial house surrounded by mature trees. The composition focuses on the architectural integrity of the building, featuring a central doorway and multi-pane windows, set against a lawn with soft shadows.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good-Fair; visible mat burn and acidity from the mounting materials.
Estimated Market Value
$150 - $400 USD
Auction Estimate
$100 - $300 USD
Provenance History
Unknown; likely acquired through local estate sales or family inheritance. No visible gallery or exhibition labels.
Art Historical Significance
A representative example of mid-century architectural documentation that reflects a romanticized interest in early American colonial heritage, common in the New England area.
Notable Features
Handwritten inscription in the lower right corner (partially obscured) which likely identifies the specific historical building or the artist's signature.
Condition Issues
Significant darkening of the matting suggests the use of non-archival cardboard, which can lead to acid transfer (browning) on the paper edges. Potential minor fading due to UV exposure.
Conservation Recommendations
Re-mat using acid-free, archival materials and mount behind UV-protective glass to prevent further discoloration of the paper fibers.