1908 Art Appraisal

Oval Framed Watercolor Painting: Mother and Child by Lucille Simon (1908)

This item is an oval-framed watercolor painting depicting a mother holding her infant child. The artwork is housed within a dark, possibly mahogany or stained wood, oval frame with a rounded profile. The painting itself features a soft color palette dominated by blues and muted earth tones, suggesting a gentle and tender scene. The mother figure, depicted with an elegant updo hairstyle and a contemplative downward gaze, wears a flowing blue gown or drapery over what appears to be a lighter undergarment or shawl. She cradles her child close to her chest, with the child's head visible. The background is minimally rendered with light green and beige washes, creating a subtle ambiance without distracting from the figures. There's a faint suggestion of interior architecture, possibly a bed or furniture, in the upper left. A prominent characteristic is the visible signature in the lower right corner, which reads 'Lucile Simon' (or a similar spelling, potentially 'Lucille Simon') followed by '1908'. The painting exhibits signs of age appropriate for its stated date, including a generalized yellowing or 'toning' of the paper, indicative of oxidation and exposure over time. There might be some subtle foxing or discoloration spots, though these are not clearly discernible in the provided image. The artist's hand appears to be skilled in watercolor, employing delicate washes and soft outlines to create a serene and intimate portrait. The piece's overall condition appears stable within its frame, though the age of the paper and potential light exposure could impact its long-term preservation. The frame itself shows a smooth, dark finish, without apparent major damage from the visible angle. This piece represents a sentimental and classic subject matter rendered in a delicate style.