Ernest Martin Hennings (American, 1886-1956). Open Clearing. Oil on canvas. 18 x 93 inches (45.7 x 236.2 cm). Signed low...

Description

Ernest Martin Hennings (American, 1886-1956)
Open Clearing
Oil on canvas
18 x 93 inches (45.7 x 236.2 cm)
Signed lower right: E. Martin Hennings

PROVENANCE:
Elizabeth Rould, Woodbury, Minnesota;
Estate of the above.

Born in New Jersey and raised in Chicago by German immigrant
parents, Ernest Hennings trained at both the Art Institute of Chicago and the Munich Academy. In 1915, Hennings began work as a commercial artist and muralist. During this period he painted with thick, broad brush strokes and favored the darkened palette of the Munich School. But it was the artist's experience of Taos, New Mexico that would prove the pivotal influence in his work, ultimately solidifying his reputation as one of the greatest painters of the American west.

Like his close friends Victor Higgins and Walter Ufer, Hennings came to Taos by way of the patronage of Chicago's former mayor and art collector Carter H. Harrison, Jr. In 1924, Hennings joined the Taos Society of Artists and quickly developed his signature painting style: colorful, patterned scenes of sensitively rendered Pueblo Indians communing with nature. Aspen forests were Hennings' preferred setting for these tapestry-like paintings, in which Indians on horseback interlace with delicately-rendered trees, seemingly woven into the natural fabric of woodlands. Hennings believed that man could best find wholeness and serenity in nature, and thus became known for his expressive depictions of riders on horseback navigating the countryside. In Open Clearing, Hennings invites the viewer to become the explorer of this quiet landscape. In the distance, cumulus clouds mimic the shape of the distant trees, unifying the sky and the land, and creating the sense of a vast and expansive panorama. Hennings was truly a master at weaving together the landscape and figural elements of his compositions, thus achieving the ultimate union of man and nature.


More information about Hennings, Ernest Martin. See also: E. Martin Hennings 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.