California and Western Paintings and Sculpture
http://www.bonhams.com/usa/auction/18265/
On offer are a variety of important early 19th century landscapes; Western scenes; Impressionist and Modernist compositions including plein air paintings; genre scenes and cityscapes by established California and American artists. Highlighting the Summer auction is a robust offering of Western paintings and sculpture led by Russian-American artist Nikolai Fechin's Head of a Girl. The oil on canvas work is dominated by a striking depiction of a young Mexican girl in brightly hued clothing. Highly sought after, the painting displays Fechin's signature technique, which he used to create a powerful depiction of the sitter with an intensity that emanates from his bold palate and broad brushstrokes. Head of a Girl is expected to bring $150,000-200,000 on August 17th. Additional offerings of note from the Western section include: a Southwestern watercolor by Victor William Higgins titled Taos Ranch (est. $18,000-20,000) and two works by Maynard Dixon titled Approaching storm, Coast Range, California, 1921 (est. $40,000-60,000), from the collection of the Fresno Metropolitan Museum and Fallen Leaf, 1933 (est. $30,000-50,000). Untitled (Woman painting) by Georgia O'Keeffe (est. $30,000-50,000) will also be featured during the sale. Rare to market, the early monotype is jewel-like and measures a petite 3 7/8 x 3-inches. The work is composed of muted, soft hues of gray, highlighting a glowing figure with rosy cheeks working at an easel.
