작품 상세

Knute Heldner (Swedish/New Orleans, 1875-1952), "Southern Tranquility (Courtyard behind 726 St. Peter St., Preservation Hall, New Orleans)", 1945, oil on linen, signed and dated lower right, titled on frame plaque, inscribed en verso of frame, 28 in. x 42 in., framed Note: Knute Heldner was a prominent member of the thriving artistic community in the Vieux Carré in the second quarter of the 20th century. Involved with both the Arts & Crafts Club of New Orleans and the New Orleans Art School, Heldner maintained a studio at 732 St. Peter Street beginning in 1935. He painted views of the French Quarter, from its hidden courtyards to grand public spaces and rooftop vistas. The 1945 work offered here is a rare example of a fine exhibition canvas of the garden and courtyard adjacent to Heldner's studio. This vivid composition depicts a variety of flora and fauna in full summer bloom. An African-American woman in a tignon, who often appears in his various paintings of Vieux Carré courtyards, carries a tray with a cup of café au lait down the stairs.