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LOT 157

ARCA
1928 -
Canadian

Patinoire à Québec d'autrefois
oil on canvas
signed and on verso signed, titled, dated 1981 and inscribed variously
24 x 30 in, 61 x 76.2 cm

Estimate: $15,000 - $25,000 CAD

Sold for: $58,250

Preview at: Heffel Toronto – 13 Hazelton Ave

PROVENANCE
Continental Galleries of Fine Art, Montreal
Private Collection, Calgary


After studying at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts’ school under Arthur Lismer and Goodridge Roberts, John Little began working as a draughtsman at his father’s architectural firm in 1951. By 1953, he had turned to painting full time, and he focused his work on Montreal’s historic neighbourhoods, sensitively capturing their unique architecture and their essential atmosphere. Little’s affection for the precincts of Quebec City and Montreal was so great that he keenly felt the loss of buildings and architectural detail due to the process of modernization. This is one of the artist’s quintessential scenes, which celebrates a typical urban working-class area, depicting its side-by-side houses with their dormer windows, steep wooden staircases and small sheds. In the centre of the work is a homemade ice rink with local children playing hockey, that most Canadian of games. Adding to the animation of the scene are the lines of washing that flutter above, hung out even in winter. Little shows his keen perception of atmosphere in the bluish glow of the snow and the steely light that illuminates the scene, communicating a palpable sense of winter’s chill.


Estimate: $15,000 - $25,000 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.