201
The Lobsterman by Maud Lewis
Estimate:
CA$30,000 - CA$40,000
Sold
CA$45,000
Live Auction
Folk Art
Size
Masonite: 12 x 14".
Category
Description
Marshalltown, Nova Scotia. 1967. A naive, action-packed harbour scene depicting a pipe-smoking man grasping an over-filled bucket of lobsters. Between the lobster man and a cluster of four lobster traps is a striking and disproportionate lobster with its appendages fully extended. Behind, two men on a sailboat are shown vigorously raising its sails while a fisherman rows peacefully behind them. Here, Maud's inspiration with bold marine paint colours is ever-so apparent. Large figures like the lobster man are seldom represented in Maud's work, making this image rare and potentially unique. Despite her physical limitations, Maud Lewis is recognized internationally for her undying persistence in making the world a brighter place through works like this one. Signed, "Maud Lewis", lower right. Signed, "Maud Lewis / RR2 Marshalltown / NS / 1967", in marker on reverse by John Kinnear.
Condition
Excellent condition. The touch-ups around the claw of the large lobster appear to be improvements made by the artist.
Medium
Mixed media on masonite.
Provenance
From the John Ellington Estate. This work was originally sold through Ontario artist John Kinnear. Kinnear was one of Maud's earliest advocates. He sent Maud pre-primed Masonite boards and supplies and sometimes Maud would return the painted finished boards to Kinnear for him to sell in the Ontario market. 'Man with Lobster Traps' was sent by Maud to Kinnear in 1967. Kinnear retained the work until he traded it to friend and colleague John Ellington for a blue sapphire tie stay a few years later. Ellington was owner of "The Gem and Gold Shop", on Richmond Street, London, Ontario.
