Lot Essay
Following in the still life tradition of William M. Harnett and John Frederick Peto, Otis Kaye explored trompe l'oeil painting throughout his career. Primarily known for his pictures of American currency, Kaye was also a master at depicting objects such as the rifle, a standard example of the .30 caliber carbine used by American troops in World War II, and various letters and mementoes of war shown in Land of the Free, Home of the Brave.
The inspiration for this painting came from a soldier named Donald Hoffman, whom Kaye met and took a liking to shortly before Hoffman departed for Germany at the beginning of World War II. During the War Hoffman was thought to be Missing in Action. He was later found wounded, and was rescued and brought safely home. Upon Hoffman's return to the United States, Kaye painted Land of the Free, Home of the Brave in his honor.
A letter from the artist discussing the painting accompanies the lot.
The inspiration for this painting came from a soldier named Donald Hoffman, whom Kaye met and took a liking to shortly before Hoffman departed for Germany at the beginning of World War II. During the War Hoffman was thought to be Missing in Action. He was later found wounded, and was rescued and brought safely home. Upon Hoffman's return to the United States, Kaye painted Land of the Free, Home of the Brave in his honor.
A letter from the artist discussing the painting accompanies the lot.