Gaspare J. Ruffolo (American/Illinois, 1908-1997) oil on board painting depicting a young African American male in a straw hat and work clothes, cotton field with figures in the background. Signed "Gaspere Ruffolo" lower right. Housed in a painted composite frame. Sight – 19 3/4" H x 15 5/8" W. Framed – 25" H x 21" 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 very good condition. Slight gap between board and frame, top right. Black light reveals no alterations.