Details
Winslow Homer (1836-1910)
Lizzie Grant
charcoal and white gouache on paper
105/8 x 81/8 in. (27 x 20.6 cm.)
Provenance
Jeannette Washburn, Belmont, Massachusetts, probably acquired directly from the artist.
Kate Kelsey, daughter of the above, by bequest.
Milch Galleries, New York, purchased from the above, 1947.
Mr. and Mrs. Alexander Racolin, acquired from the above, 1957.
Exhibited
New York, M. Knoedler & Co., Inc., Winslow Homer in Monochrome, December 1986-January 1987, no. 36, illustrated

Lot Essay

Winslow Homer created some of his most intimate works on paper as gifts for his family or close friends. Lizzie Grant depicts Elizabeth Grant, who was part of Homer's circle of cousins and friends who lived in Belmont, Massachusetts. The drawing may have been initially acquired by Jeanette Washburn, suggesting that either Homer gave it directly to her, or he had given it to Lizzie Grant, who in turn gave it to her particular friend.

Homer's skills as a draftsman are clearly evident--he has executed the drawing with a finesse and sureness that were uncommon among American artists of the day. Homer's use of white gouache lends a sense of spontaneity and vitality to the drawing, while the outline of the female form is created with a precise, unwavering touch.

This watercolor will be included in the forthcoming Spanierman Gallery/CUNY/Goodrich/Whitney catalogue raisonné of the works of Winslow Homer.

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