G. (Gerald Harvey Jones) Harvey (American, 1933-2017). Powell Street Cable Cars. Oil on canvas. 20 x 16 inches (50.8 x 4...

Description

G. (Gerald Harvey Jones) Harvey (American, 1933-2017)
Powell Street Cable Cars
Oil on canvas
20 x 16 inches (50.8 x 40.6 cm)
Signed lower right: G. Harvey
Signed and titled on the reverse: KDGE / Powell Street / Cable Cars / San Francisco / G. Harvey
Titled on the stretcher: KDGE / Powell Street Cable Cars (San Francisco)

PROVENANCE:
Legacy Gallery, Scottsdale, Arizona;
The Duffy and Tina Oyster Foundation, Dallas;
Heritage Auctions, Dallas, July 16, 2009, lot 38175;
Acquired by the present owner from the above.

One of G. Harvey's most popular themes is the depiction of life at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries in major American cities, such as New York, Washington, D.C., San Francisco, and Dallas. These scenes depict either early morning or evening rain slicked streets which gives Harvey ample opportunity to show his skill at depicting light, shadow, reflection, and atmosphere. A common motif is the juxtaposition of symbols of an earlier day, such as mounted cowboys wearing their rain slickers against the emerging urbanism of modern America as represented by bustling street scenes complete with such new modes of transportation as automobiles and street cars. Occasionally, he departs from a purely historical motif and presents his impression of a contemporary city. In Powell Street Cable Cars, Harvey presents modern day San Francisco, but in a way that is evocative of its historic past. The scene presented was inspired by a recent trip to that city. The painting with its blend of colors, textures, and different sources of light, also blends the old and the new. The figures here are modern city dwellers and visitors, but by focusing on the cable cars that wind their way up and down San Francisco streets, Harvey evokes an earlier time when these historic modes of transportation were brand new.

More information about G. (Gerald Harvey Jones) Harvey. See also: Harvey, G. (Gerald Harvey Jones) 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.