Gaspare J. Ruffolo (American/Illinois, 1908-1997) oil on canvas painting depicting a black man playing a banjo and wearing a white shirt, overalls, and hat against a brick background. Signed "Gaspere Ruffolo" lower left. Housed in a black painted frame. Sight – 25 1/2" H x 19 1/2" W. Framed – 28 1/4" H x 22" W. American, early/mid 20th century. Biography: Chicago-born Gaspere Ruffolo (alternate spelling Gasper) studied painting at the Art Institute of Chicago with Wellington Reynolds and George Oberteuffer, and exhibited at the Art Institute. He was known for his landscapes and portraits, and was a member of the Association of Chicago Painters and Sculptors, Chicago Galleries Association, and the All-Illinois Society of Fine Artists. (source: Peter Hastings Falk, Who Was Who in American Art). CONDITION: Overall good condition with areas of rubbing, largest 1/4" x 3/4", lower right of canvas. Black light shows no alterations.