John Steuart Curry (American, 1897-1946). Still Life with Roses, Tulips and Mimosa. Oil on canvas. 30 x 25-1/2 inches (7...

Description

John Steuart Curry (American, 1897-1946)
Still Life with Roses, Tulips and Mimosa
Oil on canvas
30 x 25-1/2 inches (76.2 x 64.8 cm)
Signed and inscribed lower right: John Steuart Curry / To James and Katrene Connelly / Dec. 25, 1935

PROVENANCE:
Kennedy Galleries, New York;
Heritage Auctions, Dallas, May 3, 2006, lot 23345;
Acquired by the present owner from the above.

EXHIBITED:
Butler Institute, Youngstown, Ohio, 1991.

John Steuart Curry's Still Life with Roses, Tulips and Mimosa represents a compelling exploration of color and form, diverging notably from his renowned Regionalist portrayals of American life. Known primarily for vivid depictions of Midwestern scenes, Curry reveals a lesser-seen dimension of his artistic skill in this vibrant floral arrangement.

The painting features meticulously rendered roses, tulips, and delicate mimosa blossoms, each bloom detailed with precision to highlight distinctive textures and radiant hues. Set against a subdued background, the flowers emerge vividly, demonstrating Curry's adept handling of composition, color balance, and subtle tonal contrasts. The thoughtful interplay of light and shadow creates depth and intimacy, underscoring his observational sensitivity.

Born in Kansas in 1897, Curry became a central figure of the American Regionalist movement alongside Thomas Hart Benton and Grant Wood. Although still lifes are relatively rare in Curry's oeuvre, works such as Flowers in a Pitcher, held by the Whitney Museum of American Art, New York, affirm his interest and proficiency in the genre. Still Life with Roses, Tulips and Mimosa further highlights Curry's versatility as an artist, showcasing his ability to evoke quiet beauty and emotional resonance beyond his more commonly celebrated narrative-driven imagery.


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