Exceptional 1891 George Henry Smillie Shipbuilder in Cohasset, MA Oil Signed

Description: About this work: “Shipbuilder in Cohasset, MA, 1891” by George Henry Smillie (American, 1840-1921) In this wonderful example of Smillie’s renowned coastline paintings, he captures the remnants of the once booming shipbuilding industry in Cohasset, Massachusetts. In the early 1800s five shipyards were producing schooners for Cohasset’s thriving fishing industry, often using timber from Cohasset’s forests. The harbor was the center of business and employed a significant portion of the town’s residents. However, in the latter half of the 19th century, the fish supply diminished resulting in a steep decline in commercial fishing and shipbuilding. Fortunately, in 1849 a train began running through Cohasset, providing an economic and social boost to the area. As the fishing industry became absorbed by large centers like Gloucester and Boston, the romantic and beautiful scenery, the cool ocean breezes, and the quiet and restful life attracted wealthy city-dwellers to the shore for the summer. Their large estates still dominate the coast today. This work is oil on canvas and is signed and inscribed “Geo. H Smillie - Cohasset 1891” in the lower left. It is housed in a beautiful antique gold frame. Size: 16 inches tall by 24 inches wide (painting) 26.75 inches tall by 35 inches wide by 4 inches deep (frame) Provenance: Private collection, US; Acquired from the above About the artist: A member of a respected family of engravers and painters, George Smillie was once described as “one of the most widely known American landscape painters.” At the age of twenty Smillie received his first art lessons from his father, James Smillie, an eminent steel engraver. Shortly thereafter, he studied landscape painting briefly with James MacDougal Hart. In 1862 he opened a studio in New York City and exhibited for the first time at the National Academy of Design, where he was elected an associate in 1864. Smillie spent most of his professional life in New York, but sketched for several summers in the White Mountains and in the Adirondacks. In 1871, he sketched in the Rockies and Yosemite Valley, and in 1874 in Florida. In 1881 he married Nellie Sheldon Jacobs, formerly a pupil of his older brother, James D. Smillie, whith whom the couple subsequently shared a studio in New York. In 1885 George Smillie and his wife made an extended tour of Europe. He was elected an academician of the National Academy of Design in 1882 and served as recording secretary from 1892 to 1902. He was also an early member, and later an officer, of the American Water Color Society. A member of one of the most active and influential families in the art circles of New York City, George Smillie was acquainted at an early age with his father's many engraved translations from such American landscapists as Thomas Cole, Asher Durand, and Jasper Cropsey. Quite naturally then, he was able to embrace a wide range of landscape subjects, from quiet New England meadows to bold mountain passages and rocky coastlines. Condition: Painting in very good overall condition. No apparent restoration when viewed under UV light. Minuscule paint losses in the sky. Antique frame with losses, scratches, wear, and associated touch up to gilding throughout. It is ready to be displayed and enjoyed! This work will be carefully packed and shipped with insurance and signature confirmation. Free local pick up is also available. International buyers - please note I cannot lower the declared value of the package for customs. I frequently receive messages from people after I sell an item, asking if it is definitely gone. If something catches your eye, don't hesitate to inquire before it is sold! Feel free to ask any questions.

Price: 7500 USD

Location: Morrisville, Pennsylvania

End Time: 2024-09-12T16:57:57.000Z

Shipping Cost: 0 USD