A 1920s floral still life impressionist oil painting on canvas on board by important New Orleans artist Alberta Kinsey (b. 1875–1952).
Densely arranged berry-hued bouquet with white clusters and yellow accents explodes out of a silver pitcher. Arrangement accompanied by a small cobalt blue vase to the side, and set upon a salmon and white floral tablecloth in front of a grey-green background.
In the artist’s usual loose and painterly realism style, with confident brushwork and a respect for underlying form that’s notable for its natural palette and warm, saturated color. Signed Alberta Kinsey at bottom right.
Ohio native Kinsey took up residence in the French Quarter in the late 1910s, and in the years that followed left an indelible stamp on the local art scene as founding member (and studio host) of the Arts and Crafts Club of New Orleans, mentor to notable artists such as Clementine Hunter, and stalwart preservationist of the historical district she called home. Additionally, she’s credited as the creator of one of the most enduring subjects of French Quarter art, the courtyard scene.
“When I came to New Orleans, I wanted to paint”, Kinsey said. “I didn’t have a great talent or genius for it, but I did have the desire. It was love at first sight, even before I had seen a patio or mounted a creaky stair in the old houses I love so much”. She further honed her craft with training in France and Italy in the 1920s, and this work is believed to date from around that period.
Presented in its original wood frame with warm putty-colored milk paint wash. Paper label with the number “103” printed on it affixed to back at top right.
Overall dimensions are;
Height: 25.5 in.
Width: 22.5 in.
Depth: 1.38 in.
Sight is H 21.63 in. x W 18.63 in.
Condition good
Wear consistent with age and use. In very good antique condition. Faint brown mark by vase and some tiny specks at edge, possibly from creation. A couple hard to notice small spots where canvas is lifted slightly from board, inclu. top right corner. Frame with some light scuffs/dirt.