catalog text
JOHN CARLETON WIGGINS (AMERICAN, 1848-1932) PAINTING OF TWO COWS
Signed lower left "Carleton Wiggins 88", executed in oil on canvas
Item # 606KMT23P
A fine and vibrant painting of two cows, the work has a very heavy atmosphere distinctly influenced by the Dutch and French Barbizon school. The surface is painted almost feverishly, the heavy impasto literally raising dimension to bring the subject to life. The resting cow in the forefront has a spine ridge that can be literally felt, the chaotic hair curling in numerous directions over the ridge of the back with a perfect blend of realism with the impressionistic texturing that lend the work a dreamy quality. It is signed lower left in his clear and distinctive signature, retaining it’s original lining and housed in an exceptional carved and gessoed frame, period correct and possibly original.
Measurements: [frame] 16 3/4” H x 19 3/4” W x 2 3/8” D; [canvas] 9 1/8” H x 12 1/8” W
Condition Report:
Frame is period correct and possibly original, gilding likewise original and in exceptional condition with expected wear/joint separations. Light surface craquelure, canvas is unlined and has a faint ripple to it with stretcher bar impressions on right side. Two patches verso with corresponding inpainting visible under UV.