Original Opossum and Young Sketch by Hall

This is an original mixed media sketch on tan-colored archival or toned paper, depicting a mother Virginia opossum carrying a single joey on her back. The artwork is executed in a masterful wildlife illustration style, utilizing fine black ink linework or charcoal for the primary forms and textures, with strategic white gouache or chalk highlights to simulate the sheen of fur and the animal's facial features. The composition is centered, featuring a dramatic use of hatching and stippling to create a sense of movement in the coarse fur. In the lower right-hand corner of the artwork, there is a visible hand-written signature that appears to read 'Hall.' The piece is presented in a custom mat that has a warm, vintage cream tone, housed within a simple, black-finished wooden or composite frame behind clear glazing. Regarding condition, there is some visible foxing and age-related yellowing to both the paper and the matting, particularly noticeable in the upper left-hand corner. The frame shows minor surface abrasions, consistent with mid-20th-century origins. The craftsmanship is high, demonstrating a deep understanding of animal anatomy and naturalistic texture application.