catalog text
WILLIAM GRAHAM (AMERICAN, 1841-1910) PAINTING OF VENETIAN STREET SCENE
Oil on canvas, signed “W. Graham 1891” in building cornerstone
Item # 609LCN19A
A work that is executed with subtlety and an interesting brush touch, the painting captures a view along the water’s edge in Venice, a look at daily life during the era. There is a certain translucence to the handling of the surface that is almost reminiscent of watercolors but with the full depth that oil paint lends to a scene. The result is a touch of impressionism in the detailing with a vast array of color infused in each element. By employing a desaturated palate, Graham lends a certain removal from reality that is most magnetic in this scene. The cornerstone of the building is signed by the artist “W. Graham 1891” just beneath the large sculpture set on a plinth.
Born in California in 1841, William Graham studied in New York, Paris and London, living extensively abroad in Venice, Rome and Capri. His works include a large selection of Venetian cityscapes and genre scenes, street views of Cairo and landscapes of life during the late 19th century. Graham’s work is only infrequently found on the open market, much of his work held in American museums and private collections.
Literature: E. Benezit Dictionary of Artists, Vol. VI, p. 553
Measurements: [framed] 21 3/4” H x 27” W x 3 3/8” D; [canvas] 12 1/2” H x 17 5/8” W
Condition Report:
Surface could benefit from a cleaning (some varnish yellowing). Relined, surface with light craquelure. Under UV showing touch ups throughout the stone walkway, speck touch ups to female beside steps (mid-right), sculpture with inpainting (upper-right), inpainting to wall of building (mid-mid). Frame in good condition with expected wear/chips/cracks to gesso, regilded.