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LOT 151

ARCA G7 OSA
1881 - 1969
Canadian

Portrait of Erica
charcoal and chalk on paper on card, 1940
signed
12 x 8 1/2 in, 30.5 x 21.6 cm

Estimate: $8,000 - $12,000 CAD

Sold for: $26,325

Preview at: Heffel Vancouver

PROVENANCE
A gift from the Artist to the current owner's mother, who is the subject of this work
By descent to the present Private Collection, Kelowna

LITERATURE
Christopher Varley, F.H. Varley: A Centennial Exhibition, Edmonton Art Gallery, 1981, reproduced page 147
Peter Varley, Frederick H. Varley, 1983, reproduced page 161
Katerina Atanassova, F.H. Varley: Portraits into the Light, Varley Art Gallery, 2007, page 92, listed page 115 and reproduced page 93

EXHIBITED
Edmonton Art Gallery, F.H. Varley: A Centennial Exhibition, 1981- 1982, traveling to the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria, the National Gallery of Canada, Ottawa, The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts and the Art Gallery of Ontario, Toronto, catalogue #164
Varley Art Gallery, Markham, F.H. Varley: Portraits into the Light, 2007 - 2008, traveling to the Beaverbrook Art Gallery, Fredericton, the Art Gallery of Alberta, Edmonton, the Kelowna Art Gallery and the National Portrait Gallery, Ottawa, catalogue #63


Both of the fine drawings of Erica Leach in this sale were executed one afternoon in 1940 during Frederick Varley’s summer stay at Wing Commander C.J. and Rae Duncan’s cottage on the Bay of Quinte near the RCAF base at Trenton. Varley’s ability as a portraitist and his deep appreciation for women were well-known. Katerina Atanassova writes that Erica perceived Varley was “able to see into her very soul” – as indicated by this perceptive depiction of her beauty and sensitivity.


Estimate: $8,000 - $12,000 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.