Casson Art Appraisal

Under the Wing" Limited Edition Print by Albert Casson

This item is a framed, limited edition art print titled "Under the Wing" by Albert Casson, as indicated by the visible signature and textual inscription on the print itself. The print depicts a snowy owl (Bubo scandiacus) with two owlets nestled protectively 'under its wing', creating a touching family scene. The artwork is characterized by its detailed rendering of the owls' plumage, showing a palette primarily of whites, grays, and subtle browns for the birds, with vibrant yellow eyes providing a focal point. The background suggests a natural habitat, possibly a tundra or grassy plain, with muted greens, yellows (likely small wildflowers), and hints of purple in the foliage, beneath a softly rendered sky. The print appears to be a lithograph or giclee, showcasing fine color registration and sharp linework. The print is housed within a gray or light silver-colored matboard, which effectively frames the artwork and provides visual separation from the frame. The frame itself is a medium-toned, possibly silver-painted or metallic, wooden or composite material with a slight bevel or traditional profile, showing some minor wear consistent with handling or age. This visible wear includes slight scuffs or dulling of the finish. There are no obvious signs of significant damage such as tears, significant foxing, or water stains on the print itself, although a thorough physical inspection outside of the frame would be needed to confirm the exact condition of the paper. The limited edition numbering is present in the lower left corner, although the specific numbers are not legible from the provided image. The artist's signature, "Albert Casson," is clearly visible in the lower right corner, affirming authenticity. Given the style and common practices for limited edition prints, this piece likely dates from the late 20th or early 21st century. The overall craftsmanship, from the detailed print to the framing, suggests a commercially produced art piece intended for decorative display.