BEN AUSTRIAN (READING, PENNSYLVANIA, 1870 - 1921). NINE

Ben Austrian's painting career began by exhibiting a trompe l'oeil game painting called "A Day's Hunt" in Philadelphia which garnered generous praise from art critics and the public. But Austrian's real success came from his paintings of chickens. In 1902 he went to Paris, where he opened a studio and was acclaimed "The Landseer of Chickens". After he returned to Pennsylvania, one of Austrian's best known ventures was his series of advertisements for the Bon Ami Company, many of which originated as paintings that featured chicks accompanied by his wife Molly. The trademark chicks are still used by the company. This charming painting features nine small chickens in and around an old shoe. Austrian's remarkable career was ended prematurely by his sudden death at the age of 51. Artist: Ben Austrian (Pennsylvania, 1870 - 1921). Condition: Relined, minor inpainting. Created: Dated 1898. Frame: Modern frame. Medium: Oil on canvas. Signature: Signed lower right "Ben Austrian 1898". Title: Nine Chicks and A Shoe. Work Size: 16" x 24" Condition: Dimensions: Frame: 24 - 1/4" x 32".