Still Life Theorem - Sold
American, mid 19th Century
Watercolor or oil on velvet, in a period maple frame
Sight: 13 ¼ x 15 ⅞ inches    
Frame: 16 ¼ x 18 ¾ inches

Depicting melons, grapes, cherries, strawberries, pears and peaches in a woven basket with green rim, in a period maple frame.

This theorem demonstrates a full composition and bold and still-vibrant colors that are desirable to collectors.

The technique of stencil and free-hand painting on velvet is known as theorem painting. It was considered an inexpensive and accessible media for even amateur artists and, as a result, numerous examples survive. The bountiful vision of a bulging fruit basket represented prosperity and, as such, fruit theorems were extremely popular in homes throughout America.

For more information on the technique and history of theorems, see Linda Carter Lefko and Barbara Knickerbocker, The Art of Theorem Painting: A History and Complete Instruction Manual (CCI Publication, 1994).

Provenance:
Northeast Auctions, The Schnall Collection, Manchester, New Hampshire, August 2, 2008, lot 836