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LOT 210

ARCA CSPWC G7 OSA
1888 - 1949
Canadian

Pine
oil on panel
initialed and on verso signed Frank H. Johnston, titled, dated 1919 and inscribed "$25."
8 1/2 x 5 7/8 in, 21.6 x 14.9 cm

Estimate: $25,000 - $35,000 CAD

Sold for: $41,300

Preview at: Heffel Toronto – 13 Hazelton Ave

PROVENANCE
Lindsay Hisler, Esq., Ottawa
Patrick Doheny Fine Art, Vancouver
Peter and Joanne Brown Collection, Vancouver, acquired from the above in 1996


The date of 1919 places this fine Frank H. Johnston sketch in his Group of Seven period. It is possible that it was executed during the Group’s boxcar trip to Algoma in September of that year, a trip which included Johnston, Lawren Harris, J.E.H. MacDonald and A.Y. Jackson. This extraordinary journey took them up the Central Algoma Railway in a railcar specially outfitted for their needs. Once the boxcar was in place, the artists fanned out into the surrounding wilderness to paint, working from early morning to dark, excited by the grandeur of this rugged land. At night they reviewed the day’s work and held spirited discussions. Johnston’s natural design sense shines through in this fresh on-the-spot sketch. The sturdy, vital pine is the central focus, a tree that the Group made an iconic symbol of the Canadian wilderness. Johnston laid down his paint with assurance, using short, loaded brush-strokes. In the process he left some bare panel exposed, and its orange tone warms the rich greens and earthy browns. Bright, indirect light that evenly illuminates the scene further contributes to the vivid quality of Johnston’s vigorous sketch.


Estimate: $25,000 - $35,000 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.