Pastel Painting Appraisal

Pastel Painting of Autumnal Woodland and Reflective Water

This is an original pastel painting depicting an autumnal woodland scene with a body of reflective water in the foreground. The artwork is characterized by its vibrant, yet soft, color palette, primarily featuring shades of rust, muted greens, deep blues, and vibrant yellows, indicative of a fall landscape. Dominant elements include numerous tree trunks, some appearing bare and white-barked, suggesting birch or similar species, while others are darker with hints of foliage in various stages of seasonal change. The background shows a dense array of trees with orange and green leaves. The foreground features a calm body of water that reflects the trees and sky above, rendered with soft, blended strokes that capture the shimmering quality of reflections. A prominent horizontal branch or log is visible along the bank of the water. The artist's signature 'D. Menard' is visible in the bottom right corner, suggesting a specific creator for this piece. The style appears impressionistic or post-impressionistic, emphasizing light, color, and atmosphere over precise detail. The condition appears good, with no overt signs of damage or wear, although a slight glare or reflection is visible on the surface, possibly from a protective covering. The pastel medium lends itself to a soft, ethereal quality and rich color saturation. The presence of L.B.S Italy T. 576 in the additional context might refer to the specific type of pastel paper or board used, or it could be an inventory or lot number, suggesting a professional grade of material and potential origin of supplies. The craftsmanship is evident in the skillful blending of colors and the ability to convey depth and light using pastels.