Manner of Virgil Ross – Three Colonial Characters
American School, 20th century, in the manner of Virgil Ross (1907–1996).
Charming character study on paper depicting three elaborately costumed figures arranged in a lively colonial-era scene. At center, a tall rabbit-like character wearing a dramatic plumed hat and blue coat leans toward a formally dressed gentleman at right, while an elegantly attired bird-like figure at left completes the theatrical composition. The expressive poses, humorous interaction and carefully designed costumes give the work a strong narrative quality closely associated with classic American animation imagery.
Executed with delicate black line work and transparent watercolor washes in soft shades of blue, rose, lavender, green, ochre and brown. The combination of confident drawing, restrained color and exaggerated characterization gives the piece the appearance of an animation concept or presentation study.
Bears the inscription/signature “Virgil Ross†near the lower center. Reverse appears largely blank, with no visible labels, inscriptions or stamps in the supplied photograph.
TECHNIQUE
Ink and watercolor on paper.
Height: 8 1/4 in.
Width: 10 3/4 in.
PROVENANCE
Private collection.
Condition
Overall good vintage condition, showing light toning, minor handling creases, subtle surface marks and age-related wear to the paper, consistent with the photographs. Please review all images carefully for complete condition details.
Estimate
Reserve
Time, Location
Auction House
American School, 20th century, in the manner of Virgil Ross (1907–1996).
Charming character study on paper depicting three elaborately costumed figures arranged in a lively colonial-era scene. At center, a tall rabbit-like character wearing a dramatic plumed hat and blue coat leans toward a formally dressed gentleman at right, while an elegantly attired bird-like figure at left completes the theatrical composition. The expressive poses, humorous interaction and carefully designed costumes give the work a strong narrative quality closely associated with classic American animation imagery.
Executed with delicate black line work and transparent watercolor washes in soft shades of blue, rose, lavender, green, ochre and brown. The combination of confident drawing, restrained color and exaggerated characterization gives the piece the appearance of an animation concept or presentation study.
Bears the inscription/signature “Virgil Ross†near the lower center. Reverse appears largely blank, with no visible labels, inscriptions or stamps in the supplied photograph.
TECHNIQUE
Ink and watercolor on paper.
Height: 8 1/4 in.
Width: 10 3/4 in.
PROVENANCE
Private collection.
Condition
Overall good vintage condition, showing light toning, minor handling creases, subtle surface marks and age-related wear to the paper, consistent with the photographs. Please review all images carefully for complete condition details.
Estimate
Reserve
Time, Location
Auction House
