Carl C. Brenner (American, 1838-1888)

Carl C. Brenner (American, 1838-1888)

Brook in an Autumn Wood
Signed and dated "Carl C. Brenner 1873" lower left.
Oil on canvas, 13 x 11 in. (33.0 x 27.9 cm), framed.
Condition: Lined, retouch to lower corners, craquelure.
Estimate $400-600

Framed dimensions are 22 x 20 x 2 1/4 inches; it is not a period frame.

It appears that the painting is lined, and it is stretched tautly on the stretcher. The stretcher has been nailed into the frame, so to avoid any potential damage, it was not removed from the frame for examination. It is assumed that the work was trimmed of its original tacking edges and then lined and restretched on the original stretcher.

Varnish inconsistencies in that the edges of the composition are varnished with a higher sheen, while the center area (particularly the cloud) is more matte. Craquelure more noticeable in the cloud, which has a slightly raised but stable area of craquelure in the center.

Retouch to the lower left corner is visible but not obtrusive in regular light, presenting as a dog-ear crease of 1-1/4 inches measured on the diagonal. The right side repair/retouch is smaller. Any fluorescence in the trees appears to be naturally occurring, reflecting the dark green and brown pigments.

Items may have wear and tear, imperfections, or the effects of aging. Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.