Seascape Etching Glass Appraisal

Nautical Etching by John Douglas Patrick

This is an original framed etching and drypoint work on paper featuring a maritime scene, attributed to the American artist John Douglas Patrick (1863–1937). The composition focuses on a masted sailing vessel navigating choppy waters, rendered with rhythmic line work and expressive cross-hatching characteristic of late 19th or early 20th-century American impressionist-era graphics. The print is monochrome, primarily in black ink on an aged, off-white or cream-colored paper stock. The artwork is housed within a simple, matted frame with a dark, likely black-painted wood finish. The matting appears and shows a slight bevel. Regarding condition, there is visible foxing (brown spotting) on the mat and potentially on the paper substrate itself, particularly in the lower right corner, indicating exposure to moisture or high humidity over time. The paper appears slightly wavy, suggesting it may not be strictly adhered to a backing board. The print displays traditional plate marks and fine-line craftsmanship indicative of hand-pulled intaglio printing. Given the artist's dates, this piece likely originates from the turn of the century, showcasing the strong influence of European study on American printmakers of that period.