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LOT 133

CGP CSPWC G7 OC POSA PRCA
1898 - 1992
Canadian

York River at Bancroft
oil on board
signed and on verso signed, titled and dated 1956 on the artist's label and the gallery label
9 1/4 x 11 1/2 in, 23.5 x 29.2 cm

Estimate: $15,000 - $25,000 CAD

Sold for: $20,000

Preview at:

PROVENANCE
Kensington Fine Art Gallery Ltd., Calgary
Private Collection, Alberta


In 1956, A.J. Casson was still in the thick of his various involvements – he had been appointed as a corresponding member of the National Academy of Design, an honorary association of American artists, in 1952. Throughout the 1950s, Casson served on the boards of public institutions such as the Ontario College of Art and the Art Gallery of Toronto, where he was vice-president from 1955 to 1969. Of course, he was still working at Sampson Matthews Limited, the design firm where he was vice-president. However, he continued to paint, and this bright, fresh sketch is a fine example of his work at this time. Water swirls among the rocks, rushing downhill and filling the board. To the right, a green section marks where bright foliage overhangs the river, creating an area of calm. Casson shows his eye for design in the dark-blue fissures in the rock, which in the successive shelves as the river flows downstream, anchor the aqueous image. It is easy to imagine the solace this depiction of York River brought him in the midst of his many obligations. One year later, Casson would leave Sampson Matthews to devote himself to his artistic career full time.


Estimate: $15,000 - $25,000 CAD

All prices are in Canadian Dollars


Although great care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information posted, errors and omissions may occur. All bids are subject to our Terms and Conditions of Business. Bidders must ensure they have satisfied themselves with the condition of the Lot prior to bidding. Condition reports are available upon request.