FRANK REAUGH (1860-1945). Breezy Morning, 1896. Oil on canvas. 12in. x 24in.. Signed and dated lower right. This paint...

Description

FRANK REAUGH (1860-1945)
Breezy Morning, 1896
Oil on canvas
12in. x 24in.
Signed and dated lower right

This painting is a major rediscovery of an early Frank Reaugh masterwork. According to Michael Grauer, Associate Director for Curatorial Affairs/Curator of Art at the Panhandle Plains Historical Museum, and Frank Reaugh expert, this is an important Frank Reaugh painting done during his most desirable period.

The following information about the painting was found in Frank Reaugh's ledger of paintings, circa 1883-1910. According to the ledger, Reaugh completed the painting in June, 1896, and valued it at $125. He had it framed and matted, and name plate applied for $4.25. He loaned the painting to Potter Seminary from September to October, 1896. In November to December, he exhibited the painting at the Texas Coast Fair in Galveston, where it "Rec'd complimentary Press notices." From May through November, 1897, he exhibited the painting at the Tennessee Centennial in Nashville - crating cost $0.30.

In May 1898, he lent the painting to S.T. Seddon in Colorado Springs. Express charges for shipping was $2.00. In July of that year, it went to the Colorado Springs Art Club and received "complimentary notice in the Colo. S. Gazette." He then showed it at the annual fall show at the Art Institute of Chicago. He then lent the painting to the art dealer M. O'Brien and Son. Beginning in November 1899, it toured with the Society of Western Artists to museums in Cincinnati, Detroit, Chicago, Toldeo, St. Louis, and Indianapolis. Frank Reaugh sold the painting in May, 1900, to J. L. Woods Merrill of Kansas City for $100.

The painting is a virtual mirror image of The Approaching Herd, but predates it by a full six years.

This remarkable painting is in extraordinary condition with the original frame. The painting is on its original canvas without lining and has no losses or restorations.

This is a once in a generation opportunity to purchase a seminal Early Texas masterwork with extensive exhibition history, complete documentation, and remarkable condition.

Provenance:
RBy descent to Rodney Bath





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