Artist R Cooper Appraisal

Landscape Painting with Ducks by R. Cooper

This is a rectangular oil painting on canvas, signed by 'R. Cooper', depicting a serene landscape with flying ducks, likely a marsh or wetland scene. The prominent colors include muted earthy tones of brown, beige, and light blues, suggesting either a foggy atmosphere or an early morning/late evening setting. The foreground and midground feature tall, reedy grasses rendered in strokes of brown and off-white, indicating dried vegetation, possibly in winter. Two ducks are visible in mid-flight; one is closer to the viewer and more detailed, showing brown and white plumage, while another is smaller and higher up in the scene. The sky is a soft, light blue-grey, transitioning into warmer beige and brown hues towards the horizon line. The painting is housed within a gilded, ornate wooden frame. The frame features a classic profile with several steps and a subtle carved pattern along its inner edge, typical of decorative frames from the mid to late 20th century. The gold finish appears to be in good condition, with no obvious signs of significant chipping or wear, though the lighting makes it difficult to assess minor abrasions. The canvas itself seems taut, and the paint surface looks intact without visible cracking, flaking, or punctures, although a more direct and close-up inspection would be required to confirm this. The artist's signature, 'R. Cooper', is visible in the upper right quadrant of the painting, executed in a cursive style. The overall quality of the artwork suggests a decorative piece, likely intended for domestic display, demonstrating competent brushwork and composition.