Mush! - Sled Dog Team in Denali Landscape
Framed print, likely a commemorative poster or offset lithograph on paper • Jon Van Zyle (born 1948)
Style & Movement
Contemporary Alaskan Realism / Wildlife Art
Medium & Technique
Mechanical print process after an original acrylic or oil painting; features a printed title and graphic icons in the lower margin
Creation Period
2002
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 12 x 36 inches (panoramic horizontal format)
Subject Description
A panoramic Alaskan winter scene depicting a mushing team traversing a snow-covered foreground, with a dramatic, light-filled mountain range (likely Denali/Mt. McKinley) under a dark sky featuring hints of the Aurora Borealis. The bottom margin includes the word 'MUSH' and dog silhouettes.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Fair. There is visible undulating/waving of the paper substrate (cockling) and some surface grime on the glazing
Estimated Market Value
$50 - $150 USD
Auction Estimate
$30 - $80 USD
Provenance History
Likely acquired via an Alaskan gallery or as an official Iditarod/regional commemorative item; private collection
Art Historical Significance
Jon Van Zyle is the official artist of the Iditarod Sled Dog Race and a member of the ASMA. This work represents the intersection of commercial regional graphics and narrative Alaskan landscape painting.
Notable Features
Includes the artist's printed signature and date '02; distinct 'MUSH' typography with stylized sled dog iconography in the white margin border
Condition Issues
Evidence of moisture-induced paper distortion (buckling or waves), possible mild UV fading to the blues/pinks, and potential acidity from original backing board
Conservation Recommendations
Recommend remounting with acid-free matting to flatten the print and replacing standard glass with UV-protective museum glass to prevent further pigment degradation
Collector Notes
signed Jon Van Zyle '02 ©️