Sold for: $26,550

PROVENANCE
Private Collection, Victoria

LITERATURE
Roger Boulet, Frederick Marlett Bell-Smith (1846 - 1923), Art Gallery of Greater Victoria, 1977, page 101

EXHIBITED
Albright Gallery, Buffalo Society of Artists, label on verso

Although this watercolour was titled Alaska Totem Poles on the Buffalo Society of Artists label on verso - on considering the distinctive structures present in historic times which are represented here, the location is clearly Alert Bay, BC. Bell-Smith was not known to have traveled to Alaska, and a notation in his sketchbook records he was on a boat between Vancouver and Victoria in September of 1909, and Roger Boulet stated "It is likely he saw the Kwakiutl village of Alert Bay on this trip." This striking watercolour is an intriguing record of First Nations life set in Alert Bay's stunning coastal setting, finely detailed with canoes, totems, buildings and the activities of the village's inhabitants.

The Provincial Archives of British Columbia has a 1909 oil entitled Indian Village, Pacific Coast, Early Morning in their collection.

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.