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LOT 048

BCSFA CGP CSPWC OC RCA
1909 - 1998
Canadian

Two Musicians
oil on board
signed and dated 1948 and on verso signed, titled, dated and inscribed "J.L. Shadbolt, 128 Monroe St., NY 2" and "$75"
28 3/4 x 19 3/4 in, 73 x 50.2 cm

Estimate: $20,000 - $30,000 CAD

Sold for: $55,250

Preview at:

PROVENANCE
Petley Jones Gallery, Vancouver
By descent through the family to a Private Collector, Kelowna
Sold sale of Canadian Post-War & Contemporary Art, Heffel Fine Art Auction House, November 28, 2013, lot 41
Private Collection, Vancouver

LITERATURE
Scott Watson, Jack Shadbolt, 1990, page 57


In September of 1948, funded by Veterans Affairs Canada, Jack Shadbolt arrived in New York. His funds were conditional on taking a program of studies, so he enrolled in the Art Students League. Emerging at that time in New York was an exciting new phenomenon, the American Abstract Expressionist movement. The Second World War and the tensions of its aftermath on society were on Shadbolt’s mind and in his images even before he went to New York. While there, he was also greatly interested in Pablo Picasso, whose work he took as a model for what he called “symbolic abstraction.” Shadbolt stated, “It could be maintained that this concept of symbolic abstraction offers us a new dimension of form replete with the psychological possibilities for a great human expression at the service of large social themes.” The inscription and date identify this bold and striking work as a New York painting, one which clearly shows the influence of Picasso in its Cubist fracturing of planes – an ideal vehicle for Shadbolt to express his perceptions of the human psyche in this vital post-war period.


Estimate: $20,000 - $30,000 CAD

All prices are in Canadian Dollars


Although great care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information posted, errors and omissions may occur. All bids are subject to our Terms and Conditions of Business. Bidders must ensure they have satisfied themselves with the condition of the Lot prior to bidding. Condition reports are available upon request.