FROM THE PRIVATE COLLECTION OF A TEXAS FAMILY. HENRY C. BALINK (American, 1882-1963). The Elder. Oil on canvas. 20 x 1...

Description

FROM THE PRIVATE COLLECTION OF A TEXAS FAMILY

HENRY C. BALINK (American, 1882-1963)
The Elder
Oil on canvas
20 x 16 inches (50.8 x 40.6 cm)
Signed and inscribed lower right: Henry C. Balink / Santa Fe, NM

Born in Amsterdam in 1882, Balink discovered a natural artistic talent at an early age, but he was not encouraged to pursue its development by his parents. They were quite opposed to his interest in artistic training. In spite of their opposition, Balink won admission to the prestigious Royal Academie in Amsterdam and financed his education through a variety of unusual pursuits. He immigrated to New York City in 1914, and a short while later moved to Chicago. It was there that Balink saw a travel poster glamorizing the Southwest. Balink first visited Taos in 1917, eventually settling in Santa Fe in 1924. He established a home and studio on Old Pecos Road, where he remained until his death in 1963.

Balink's portraits such as The Elder solidified his commercial and critical success. Painting from life, he depicted his sitters in their native dress and captured each one's distinct character and personality. In this canvas we see a sensitively-rendered study of a man at the end of his days. His story is etched in the lines of his weathered face, each one a testament to a long and rich life. The elder is clothed in an ornately-decorated buckskin coat adorned with colorful beadwork and ribbons, the splash of color providing a startling contrast to his visible weariness. Balink has depicted the elder with eloquence and dignity, mingled with a quiet resignation to the inevitable passing of time.

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