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For sale is one of 4 original artworks by the Pennsylvania Naive Folk art Artist Justin McCarthy (1891 - 1977) that we are selling here in our store. Please see our store for the additional works by this artist (if still available).
Provenance: Pennsylvania Artist Sterling Strauser personal collection: Acquired directly from the Artist. Freeman’s sale of the Sterling Strauser Estate.
The artwork in this sale features a classic example of Justin McCarthy‘s work. In this example he depicts various characters with a focus on their noses. He captures his rendition of actors José Ferrer and Jimmy Durante. Two prominent actors known for their distinguished noses.
All done on individual paper sheets laid onto paper board
The painting with the Sterling Strauser Estate stamp on verso.
Condition: The artwork with ripples in the laid down sheets. Left corner appears to be cut or as produced by the artist. Uncertain. Normal toning.
Not Framed
Circa 1940’s 50’s in age
Measurements: 14” x 22”
Justin McCarthy (1891 - 1977)
Born in Weatherly, Pennsylvania, he produced hundreds of drawings and paintings in asymmetrical composition, exaggerated drawing and unnatural colors. His subjects ranged from American history -- Washington crossing the Delaware-- to abstract to still life and figure. His early life was plagued with sadness that included the death of his father and brother and flunking out of the University of Pennsylvania law school. From 1915 to 1920, he was in a mental institution and began to paint. From then on he lived and painted at the family home in Weatherly. He was discovered in 1960 by artist Sterling Strausser.
