CLIFFS AND MOUNTAIN LAKE

40,950.00
Price Realized: $
Date: 1927
Artist: James Edward Hervey MacDonald
Medium: oil on board
Dimensions: 8.5 x 10.5 in. (21.6 x 26.7 cm)
Notes:

signed & dated lower right

Provenance: Former collection of Thoreau MacDonald (son of the artist), Toronto ON; Former collection of Dr. Max Grinstein, Calgary AB; Kensington Fine Art Gallery, Calgary AB; Masters Gallery, Calgary AB

Reference: “The Lake O’Hara Art of J.E.H. MacDonald and Hiker’s Guide” by Lisa Christensen (Fifth House Books; 2003)

J. E. H. MacDonald made seven trips to the Canadian Rockies, visiting every summer between 1924 and 1930. He gained much inspiration from the majesty of the mountains, typically painting in the area of Lake O’Hara in Yoho National Park. MacDonald headed west by train, disembarking at Wapta Station, near the current location of West Louise Lodge. As was typical, he then travelled by pack horse with his gear and supplies. The location of this intimate scene is Ross Lake, a mountain gem cradled within the cliffs of Narao Peak. It is located on the Great Divide, in the valley below O’Hara (at a distance of about 11 km). MacDonald would have taken the time, at the beginning or end of his trip, to stop and paint in this area. This work is one of only approximately 10 known examples painted by Macdonald outside of Lake O’Hara proper. Another example depicting this location, titled “Near Ross Lake”, is found in the collection of the Museum of London (55.A.23).

We thank Lisa Christensen for her assistance in determining the location of this scene and for the historical context.

40,000.00
Estimate:
60,000.00
 - 
LOT: 31

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