Thomas Alexander Harrison (American, 1853-1930) oil on board seascape, depicting the light from a moon, partially shrouded by clouds, reflected in calm waters along a shoreline. Signed lower right "A. Harrison". Housed in a gilt carved frame and gilt wood liner with brass placard to lower edge with artist's name. Sight - 12 1/4" H x 15 1/4" W. Framed - 21" H x 24" W. Biography: Thomas Harrison was renowned for his nocturnal maritime paintings, a skill he honed while working for the U.S. Coastal Survey as a topographical draftsman in 1872. He also studied at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts and at the San Francisco School of Design. By 1879 he had settled in Paris, where he was introduced to plein-air painting and became the acknowledged leader of the artists' colony at Pont Aven, Brittany. The French government made him a Chevalier of Legion of Honor and Officer of Public Instruction. He continued to return to San Francisco, however, to exhibit and take part in activities of the Bohemian Club. He earned numerous awards including gold medals at the PAFA and the Paris Exposition, both in 1889. His work is in several major museums. Sources: John Davis, "Thomas Alexander Harriston," Paintings and Sculpture in the Collection of the National Academy of Design, Volume One, 1826-1925; Edan Hughes, "Artists in California, 1786-1940." Provenance: The estate of Joan Dearden, Johnson City, Tennessee.

Rubbing along the lower left margin. A few pinprick losses to surface, mid-right quadrant. Minor abrasions to the frame.