Desert Landscape Painting On Board Appraisal

Desert Landscape Painting on Board

This item is an unframed painting depicting a desert landscape, executed on a rigid board likely made of wood or masonite. The painting features a prominent range of red-orange mountains in the mid-ground, characterized by strong, sharp angles and geometric planes, suggesting a stylized or somewhat abstract expression. Behind these, a second range of mountains appears in muted blues and purples, receding into the distance under a pale blue sky. In the foreground, the landscape is bathed in shades of yellow and ochre, representing desert earth. Several light-colored, possibly white or very pale green, bushy trees are depicted, adding visual interest and breaking the horizontal lines of the foreground. There appears to be a smaller, darker brown area in the immediate foreground, possibly indicating shadows or a change in terrain. The overall palette is dominated by earthy tones, vibrant reds, and cool blues. The brushstrokes are visible and appear somewhat loose, contributing to the expressive quality of the piece. There are visible areas of cosmetic wear including what appear to be small dark spots or possibly mildew on the light blue sky area. The edges of the board show some minor scuffing and wear consistent with an unframed piece that has been handled over time. In the lower right corner, there is a visible signature or marking, partially obscured but appearing to be 'L. KING' or similar. Based on the style and general appearance, the painting likely dates from the mid-20th century, possibly 1950s-1970s, reflecting a regionalist or perhaps a slightly modern art aesthetic. The craftsmanship suggests a competent hand, though the work appears to be a decorative piece rather than a fine art masterpiece, offering a charming representation of a desert scene.