PROPERTY OF A PROMINENT TEXAS COLLECTOR. GERARD CURTIS DELANO (American, 1890-1972). Navajos on Horseback. Watercolor ...

Description

PROPERTY OF A PROMINENT TEXAS COLLECTOR

GERARD CURTIS DELANO (American, 1890-1972)
Navajos on Horseback
Watercolor on paper
18 x 19-1/2 inches (45.7 x 49.5 cm)
Signed lower right: Delano


Born on Cape Cod, Delano's New England childhood could not have been more distant from the West he would seek as an adult. The son of a sea captain, Delano was enamored with images of the exotic West and began sketching them at an early age. It was one of these early illustrations that he was able to sell to Life magazine which opened the door to his future career. Delano pursued formal art training first at the Swaine Free School of Design and the Art Students League before studying at the Grand Central School of Art in New York. While there, he studied with titans of illustration Dean Cornwell, Harvey Dunn, and N.C. Wyeth. These three mentors greatly influenced Delano's mature style, and each left their lasting mark. In Delano's paintings we cannot help but notice the strong sense of narrative instilled by Cornwell, the emotional depth of Dunn, and the subtlety of Wyeth.

Despite having moved to Colorado in 1919, it was not until 1943 that Delano made his first trip to the Southwest. The impact that the visit had on Delano would redirect his artistic future. His visit to the Navajo reservation was such an inspiring event that it forever altered his painting. Delano was so inspired by the people, their lifestyle, and the richness of their cultural tradition that they were to help define his mature style. Towards the end of his career, Delano's cylindrical figures and pastel palette became as recognizable as his signature. Navajos on Horseback is an earlier work that features a powerfully simple composition. Delano captures the starkness of the landscape with translucent washes of color and offers the suggestion of emotion in his pair of riders.


More information about GERARD CURTIS DELANO. See also: Delano, Gerard Curtis, Gerard Curtis Delano 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.