Seagull Over Breaking Wave Watercolor Painting By Mary Chesney Appraisal

Seagull Over Breaking Wave Watercolor Painting by Mary Chesney

This is an original watercolor painting depicting a dynamic scene of a seagull positioned above a breaking ocean wave, with elements of a sandy beach and dune grass in the foreground. The artwork measures approximately 16"x20" and is executed on what appears to be heavy-weight watercolor paper, consistent with the medium's requirements for preventing warping and ensuring color integrity. The color palette predominantly features blues and grays for the sky and distant ocean, a vibrant greenish-teal for the main wave, and earthy tones of brown and muted green for the sand and dune grass. The seagull is rendered in white with greyish-blue accents on its wings, a hint of red for its open beak, and yellowish-orange for its webbed feet. The brushstrokes are loose and fluid, characteristic of watercolor, with visible washes and layering creating a sense of movement in the water and lightness in the bird's flight. Notable features include the detailed portrayal of the seagull in mid-action, seemingly about to dip into the wave or landing, and the foamy crest of the breaking wave. Other distant seagulls are subtly visible in the sky. There are no visible condition issues such as tears, creases, or significant discoloration, indicating good preservation. The paper appears relatively clean, with no obvious signs of foxing or water damage. Given the information that it is by Mary Chesney, it suggests an artist working in a realistic yet expressive style. The overall craftsmanship indicates a competent handling of watercolor techniques, capturing the atmospheric qualities of a seaside environment. The estimated age cannot be determined precisely without further context, but the style suggests a contemporary or late 20th-century piece.