The Franklin Gallery Collection Appraisal

The Awakening of Spring by Wei Tseng Yang (The Franklin Gallery)

This item is a framed original painting or print titled 'The Awakening of Spring' by artist Wei Tseng Yang, issued by The Franklin Gallery. The artwork is presented in a portrait orientation, depicting a vibrant natural scene. The central figure is a majestic peacock with an intricately detailed, fanned tail, showcasing a rich palette of greens, blues, and gold 'eyes' on its feathers. The peacock is positioned amidst a lush arrangement of colorful peonies and other foliage, rendered in shades of pink, red, yellow, and white. To the upper left, a blossoming cherry or plum tree with delicate pink flowers and small brown birds perched on its branches adds depth and narrative. In the background, rolling mountains can be seen, partially obscured by mist, suggesting a serene landscape. Above the mountains, three birds are depicted in flight, likely swallows, adding a sense of movement to the tranquil scene. The artwork appears to be a traditional East Asian style painting, characterized by delicate brushwork and a balanced composition. There are visible red seal marks (chop marks) at the lower left and lower right of the artwork, which are common in East Asian art for artist identification and authentication. The artwork is framed under glass, with a light tan or cream-colored matboard surrounding the image, and housed within a dark reddish-brown wooden frame. The frame shows some signs of wear, particularly on the outer edges and corners, consistent with age and handling. The matboard also exhibits some discoloration or marks, especially along the top and right edges, suggesting potential dust accumulation or age-related fading. The overall condition indicates it is a vintage piece, likely from the era when The Franklin Gallery was prominent in issuing collectible art, which often falls within the late 20th century. The intricate details of the peacock's feathers and the delicate rendering of the flowers and birds suggest high-quality craftsmanship.