Mid-Century Abstract Figurative Painting of the Statue of Liberty by Robert George (1965)

This is a significant mid-century modern abstract painting on canvas, measuring 28 inches by 41 inches including the frame. Created in 1965 by Robert George, the work features an expressionistic interpretation of the Statue of Liberty set against a stylized urban skyline, likely NYC. The color palette is dominated by deep, moody blues and cyans, contrasted by high-energy splashes of mustard yellow, rust orange, and vibrant ochre that delineate the statue and the sky above. The application of paint is heavily textured, showing signs of impasto and possibly palette knife work, creating a dynamic sense of movement and depth. The composition utilizes vertical drips and rhythmic horizontal strokes to suggest the architectural density of the city. The central figure of Lady Liberty is rendered with bold, gestural lines, conveying strength and endurance. The piece is signed 'Robert George' and dated '65' in the lower right corner. It is housed in an era-appropriate gold-toned wood frame with a dark inner fillet that complements the painting's contrast. The condition appears excellent for its age; the canvas sits tight in the frame, the colors remain saturated, and there is no visible craquelure or paint loss apparent from the image. The craftsmanship reflects a high degree of confidence in mid-century abstract expressionist techniques, making it a quintessential piece for collectors of 1960s Americana and modernist art.

Based on my visual examination of this 1965 oil on canvas by Robert George, I observe a striking example of mid-century abstract expressionism. The work measures 28 by 41 inches and presents a highly textured, impasto interpretation of the Statue of Liberty. The condition appears commensurate with age; the canvas is taut, and the saturated hues of cyan, mustard, and rust show no signs of significant fading or craquelure. The gold-toned frame is stylistically appropriate for the period and adds to its presentation value. Market analysis for 'Robert George' reveals a consistent but modest secondary market presence. While not a primary blue-chip artist, his work is appreciated by decorative collectors of 1960s Americana and modernist interiors. Comparables for similarly sized, decorative mid-century abstracts by lesser-known listed artists typically hammer between $300 and $500, with retail gallery prices reaching slightly higher. The specific subject matter—the Statue of Liberty—and the distinct NYC skyline add desirable thematic appeal that elevates this above generic abstractions. It is crucial to note that this appraisal relies solely on high-resolution imagery. While the signature and dating appear consistent with the artist's known hand, definitive authentication would require physical inspection to examine the verso for gallery labels or provenance markers, and UV light testing to rule out in-painting or restoration. Without documented provenance linking this to a primary gallery exhibition, the value remains primarily decorative rather than investment-grade fine art. However, its aesthetic strength and 'ready-to-hang' condition make it a solid acquisition for the mid-market collector.