Original Watercolor Painting

New England Coastal Scene ( perhaps Monhegan Island, Maine )

 by the esteemed Massachusetts artist

 BARBARA ELLIS

------ according to the artist's family, this painting was probably done on one of her many trips to Monhegan Island ( Maine ) 

(Please excuse the reflections and glare in the photographs.  This original watercolor was photographed in its original frame -- so the protective glass has caused "interference".) 

This wonderful watercolor painting (on paper) is by the late Barbara Ellis.  This "vintage" original work of art is small, but the scene is visually powerful.  Although the paper has discolored with age (particularly around the edges), the colors have maintained their intensity --- apparently without any fading.  Under the watercolor paint and the black ink drawing, you can still see some of the artist’s preliminary pencil sketch. 

This 20th century original painting is a bit loose behind the mat --- i.e. you can get it to move around a bit.  The new owner should consider having it rematted with 100% rag mat board (and backing) even if it is decided to leave the painting in its dark wood frame (that seems to have a bit of faux finish graining).

The following information is from a site covering the wonderful exhibition of Barbara Ellis’ watercolors that was held at Busiel Mill in Laconia, New Hampshire:

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This wonderful collection of paintings [by] the late Barbara Ellis, mother of Peter Ellis of Gilford NH is not to be missed.  Described as museum quality by a local artist, the paintings will not disappoint.  Barbara Ellis was born Barbara Sleigh in Springfield, MA and, when she married Richard Ellis moved to Petersham, MA.  Stop in at almost any house in Petersham and you’ll find a Barbara Ellis painting over the fireplace.  At 80, she had sold more than 700 of her watercolors.

Barbara studied with foremost artists, travelled extensively, taught school children and was an illustrator for Filene’s department store.  As a nature lover, she was head of the Shade Tree Commission in Athol, MA planting hundreds of trees.

Barbara’s son, Peter, and his wife, Jane, have many of Barbara’s paintings in their home as do their children, David, Richard and Corey.  They have put them on display for the month of December at the Busiel Mill in Laconia.

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All of the art work and collectibles being sold by Adams-Byrd have been collected and selected one at a time by the proprietor, an art historian with many years of training and experience in university art history departments, museums, galleries and historic sites both in the U.S. and abroad.  Our small family business has been based in the Washington, D.C. area for many years.  Our online presence has now replaced our brick & mortar locations. The art and collectibles that we are offering to discerning shoppers are special and unique pieces that have been carefully “curated” by us. 

www.adamsbyrdcollection.com

www.adamsbyrdantiques.com

*************  WINTER SPECIAL -- For a few days our $850.00 regular price is being lowered to $400.00 (still with free USPS Priority shipping) **************

[After this special sale, this original work of art will be $850 with free USPS Priority shipping.]

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