Description
A striking and highly unusual mid-century modern oil painting on canvas that appears to be signed by the the collectible retro artist Van Lowe. Famous during the mid-20th century for heavily stylized, richly textured artwork, this specific piece departs from Van Lowe's typical exotica or cityscape scenes to explore a bold, brutalist folk aesthetic.
The artwork features a graphic interpretation of a playing card-specifically the King of Spades-modeled with a traditional double-sided character composition. The geometric, tribal-influenced garments, crown, and stylized features are rendered with thick, earthy pigments and a heavily aged patina. If the signature is Lowe's this painting reflects his hallmark impasto-like texturing technique gives the flat canvas depth, highlighting the bold graphic lines that anchor this impressive decorative statement. The piece is housed in its original rustic wood frame and features the artist's fluid signature "Van Lowe" in the bottom right corner.
Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Needs Restoration
Condition Notes: This beautiful piece of mid-century art is in generally good condition. It does need to be cleaned and some minor repairs may be needed. Please see photos for an overall understanding of the need.
The frame is in great condition too, considering the age. There are some scratches and knicks, but for the most part it's quite good.
I've marked this down in price to reflect the need for cleaning and restoration.
Origin:
United States
Materials & Techniques:
Canvas
Details:
What type of item is it? Vintage / Antique / Used
Country of Origin: United States
Art Subjects: Figure
Frame Type: Framed
The artwork features a graphic interpretation of a playing card-specifically the King of Spades-modeled with a traditional double-sided character composition. The geometric, tribal-influenced garments, crown, and stylized features are rendered with thick, earthy pigments and a heavily aged patina. If the signature is Lowe's this painting reflects his hallmark impasto-like texturing technique gives the flat canvas depth, highlighting the bold graphic lines that anchor this impressive decorative statement. The piece is housed in its original rustic wood frame and features the artist's fluid signature "Van Lowe" in the bottom right corner.
Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Needs Restoration
Condition Notes: This beautiful piece of mid-century art is in generally good condition. It does need to be cleaned and some minor repairs may be needed. Please see photos for an overall understanding of the need.
The frame is in great condition too, considering the age. There are some scratches and knicks, but for the most part it's quite good.
I've marked this down in price to reflect the need for cleaning and restoration.
Origin:
United States
Materials & Techniques:
Canvas
Details:
What type of item is it? Vintage / Antique / Used
Country of Origin: United States
Art Subjects: Figure
Frame Type: Framed
Condition
Original Condition Unaltered; Needs Restoration; This beautiful piece of mid-century art is in generally good condition. It does need to be cleaned and some minor repairs may be needed. Please see photos for an overall understanding of the need.
The frame is in great condition too, considering the age. There are some scratches and knicks, but for the most part it's quite good.
I've marked this down in price to reflect the need for cleaning and restoration.
The frame is in great condition too, considering the age. There are some scratches and knicks, but for the most part it's quite good.
I've marked this down in price to reflect the need for cleaning and restoration.
Buyer's Premium
20%
Dimensions
32 x 17 x 2 in
Mid-Century Modern Van Lowe Style Brutalist "King of Spades" Oil Painting on Canvas
Estimate $75-$220
Starting Bid
$35
1 bidder is watching this item
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October Furniture & Interiors Edit
Oct 16, 2026, 4:00 PM EDTNew York, NY, United States
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