ELIZABETH STRONG (American , 1855-1941). Wildflowers by a Stream, 1888. Oil on canvas. 20 x 24 inches (50.8 x 61.0 cm). ...

Description

ELIZABETH STRONG (American , 1855-1941)
Wildflowers by a Stream, 1888
Oil on canvas
20 x 24 inches (50.8 x 61.0 cm)
Signed lower right: ELIZABETH STRONG / CERNAY LA VILLE / FRANCE / 1888



PROVENANCE:
Mystic Fine Arts, Mystic, Connecticut, July 2, 1998, lot 129.


Born in Westport, Connecticut, Elizabeth Strong moved to Hawaii as a young girl and in 1858 relocated once again with her family to Oakland, California. She began her art studies in San Francisco at the School of Design under Virgil Williams and, during her two years there, won gold and silver medals for her work. In 1879 she sketched on the Monterey Peninsula while sharing a home with her brother Joseph. Through the sales of her pictures of pets of wealthy patrons she was able to save enough money for a lengthy stay in Paris, during which period she produced the present work. During her eight years in Paris she pursued additional study with animalier Emil van Marcke. After returning to the U.S., she studied at the Art Students League in New York under William M. Chase (1892-93) and then returned again to Paris where she lived until 1905. While there, she ran a small school of her own and exhibited frequently at the Salon. From Paris, she returned to California and lived in Berkeley until 1920. After settling on the Monterey Peninsula, she was active in the local art scene until her death in Carmel. Since she specialized in paintings of animals (especially bird dogs), she was sometimes called "the Rosa Bonheur of America." In her chosen specialty, landscape was an integral part of her art, and as the present work ably demonstrates, she had mastered that genre as well.



More information about Strong, Elizabeth. See also: Elizabeth Strong Artist.

*Heritage Auctions strives to provide as much information as possible but encourages in-person inspection by bidders. Statements regarding the condition of objects are only for general guidance and should not be relied upon as complete statements of fact, and do not constitute a representation, warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Some condition issues may not be noted in the condition report but are apparent in the provided photos which are considered part of the condition report. Please note that we do not de-frame lots estimated at $1,000 or less and may not be able to provide additional details for lots valued under $500. Heritage does not guarantee the condition of frames and shall not be liable for any damage/scratches to frames, glass/acrylic coverings, original boxes, display accessories, or art that has slipped in frames. All lots are sold "AS IS" under the Terms & Conditions of Auction.