Lot 956: Xanthus Smith Coastal Landscape Watercolor, Likely Maine

Xanthus Russell Smith (Pennsylvania/Maine, 1839-1929), watercolor and gouache on card, depicting a rocky coastal scene, likely Maine. Signed lower right “1916 X.S. Sep 5th.” Housed in a modern giltwood frame. Sight: 5 3/4 In. H x 8 3/4 in. W. Framed: 9 3/4 in. H x 12 3/4 in. W. Biographical note: Xanthus Russell Smith was born in 1839 into a family of Philadelphia painters, including his parents and sister. He received initial drawing instruction from his parents until he advanced to the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts. The turning point in Smith’s career as an artist came with his enlistment in the Navy during the Civil War. While serving on naval ships, Smith studied the vessels and articulated their detail through meticulously drawn compositions. Smith illustrated naval activity on a small scale. He limited most of his compositions to less than fifteen inches on either side, developing his personal penchant for the “small, compact, and neat.” After Smith’s naval service ended and before he died in 1929, he continued to paint accurate and detailed depictions of sea-going vessels and battles they encountered. Smith discovered his niche in the art world, for his compositions evoked consistent approval from patrons, as well as the favor of critics at exhibitions. (Adapted from askART).

CONDITION: Painting in overall good condition. Minor abrasions to corners.