Sold for: $31,250

PROVENANCE
Laing Galleries, Toronto
By descent to the present Private Collection, Toronto

LITERATURE
Roger Burford Mason, A Grand Eye for Glory: A Life of Franz Johnston, 1998, page 71

After Frank Johnston left the Group of Seven in 1924, he changed his name from Frank to Franz. Johnston wanted to paint the landscape on his own terms, and his style evolved towards a more traditional realism. He became intrigued with the work of Russian realist landscape painter Ivan Fedorovich Choultsé, who lived and worked in Paris. Choultsé was known for his winter scenes, and Johnston studied his techniques closely, rushing to scrutinize his work when it came in to Blair Laing’s gallery in Toronto. Johnston was greatly drawn to northern Ontario, particularly in winter, and he made regular trips there starting in the 1930s, often to the fishing camp of his friend Jack McCurdy, on Onaman Lake in the country around Lake Nipigon. Johnston’s snow scenes expertly captured this “land of crackling sub-zero [and] shivering spruces,” as described by one critic. He became known for his ability to render elusive lighting effects, and Gold Country, capturing a bright winter day, suffused with glowing mauve, gold and pale blue, is an exquisite example of this mastery.

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.