This lot consists of a framed oil painting on board, done in the Modernist style of Robert "Bob" Thompson (American, 1937-1966). A hand-painted inscription at lower right corner reads, "R. Thompson". A small group of statuesque female figures reign over this warm image, like angelic protectresses of their land and home. They guard a small child in their midst as they directly meet with the viewer's gaze. Earth, grass, and adobe walls appear to conjoin behind them. A charming and enigmatic addition to any collection.This framed piece measures approximately 12" x 11", with an approximate image sight of 7.5" x 6.75".

Robert "Bob" Thompson (1937-1966) was an African American painter whose work was loosely figural, almost Fauvist in nature. As an artist, Thompson bucked traditional roles and rebelled against the more prevalent movements of the mid-20th century. Though he veered away from pure abstraction, Thompson adapted its scale, spontaneity, and expressive use of color. He often portrayed Biblical subjects with idealized, faceless figures. In the early 1960s, following a successful stint in New York City, Bob Thompson traveled to Italy, Spain, and France, the storied world of so many of his heroes -- Piero della Francesca, Francisco Goya, and Nicolas Poussin alike. Writes Lynda Roscoe Hartigan in 'African-American Art: 19th and 20th-Century Selections': "Whether sensual, spiritual, or tortured, Thompson's paintings are metaphors of both the rational and irrational forces of nature."

PROVENANCE:
Private Collection from Upstate New York

DIMENSIONS:
Framed approx. 12" x 11"; image sight approx. 7.5" x 6.5".



Finger Lakes Auction has been commissioned to liquidate a once-in-a-lifetime fine art collection from an Upstate New York Estate. Pieces contained in this auction are some of the finest paintings ever to be offered through our Art Gallery.

PLEASE NOTE: Lots that do not carry established documented provenance nor any past auction record are described in this catalog as "in the style of". Authentication has not been established nor is it implied. Definition of "in the style of" is as follows:

"In the style of" [Artist Name] : The work may be ascribed to the artist on the basis of style, but there may be some question as to actual authorship.

Overall excellent condition. The frame remains structurally sound, with minor signs of wear. The painting itself remains rich and bold. No crackling, paint loss, or other signs of serious aesthetic damage. Please refer to photos for further detail.