Martin J. Murray New England Coast Oil On Canvas, 1976

Oil on canvas seascape by Martin J. Murray (American, Rhode Island, 1908–1997), titled New England Coast and dated 1976, presenting a brisk Atlantic shoreline with rolling surf breaking against dark, wave-worn rock ledges under a broad, green-toned sky. Murray builds the composition with a strong horizontal sweep of water and foam, articulating the cresting breaker in thick, luminous whites and cool blue-greens that shift from translucent shallows to deeper offshore tones; the foreground rocks are modeled with warm umbers and rust accents, creating a convincing contrast between wet stone and churning water. The handling balances realism and painterly abbreviation, with confident brushwork describing spray, ripples, and reflected light, while the sky is laid in smooth, atmospheric passages that heighten the drama of the sea. The work is signed and dated in the lower right, and the verso bears an artist's label inscribed "New England Coast" with the number "14," which we suspect was for a gallery showing. Murray was a Newport native who studied at the Rhode Island School of Design and the John Frazier School of Painting in Provincetown, Massachusetts, and this coastal subject aligns closely with his regional focus and the long New England tradition of marine painting. Presented in a black and gilt frame.

Measurements: 32.5" h x 38.75" w.


Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Minor wear commensurate with age and use. Minor surface wear present.

Origin:
United States

Materials & Techniques:
Canvas, Paint

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Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; Minor wear commensurate with age and use. Minor surface wear present.