Rural Landscape with Red Barns and White Birch
Painting on artist board or panel • Harry Magner (American, active mid-20th century)
Style & Movement
Mid-Century American Regionalist/Impressionist landscape
Medium & Technique
Oil on board with heavy impasto and palette knife applications
Creation Period
Mid-20th Century (circa 1950-1970)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 16 x 20 inches; Landscape orientation
Subject Description
A pastoral scene featuring two red barns nestled in rolling green hills, framed by large white birch trees in the foreground. A small body of water or pond reflects the sky in the lower left, while a large, billowing white cloud dominates the center of the composition against a teal-blue sky.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good; visible surface dirt and minor abrasion common for thrift-store finds.
Estimated Market Value
$50 - $150 USD
Auction Estimate
$30 - $80 USD
Provenance History
Unknown; currently appears in a secondary thrift or charity shop market context. High likelihood of being a decorative or hobbyist-level regional work.
Art Historical Significance
A representative example of mid-century American amateur or regionalist landscape painting, demonstrating the popularity of the 'Palette Knife' style during the era.
Notable Features
Distinguished by the heavy, sculptural use of paint (impasto) on the birch tree bark and the prominent signature 'Harry Magner' in the lower right corner.
Condition Issues
Visible surface grime, lack of framing leading to potential edge wear, and possible slight yellowing of the varnish layer.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional surface cleaning, application of a fresh UV-protective varnish, and archival framing to prevent further edge damage.
Collector Notes
Harry Magnen?