Oil on Canvas, MCM 1960: Weathered, Sculpted Ancient Tree on Granite Outcrop, Signed Yoshii

Details

Description

Once upon a time, while passing through Nevada, I thought “Hmmm… Mt. Wheeler looks like an interesting climb.” I parked … Read more Once upon a time, while passing through Nevada, I thought “Hmmm… Mt. Wheeler looks like an interesting climb.” I parked the car and headed up to the top. How could I ever forget the extraordinary bristlecone pines and junipers that awaited me — twisted, gnarled, often leafless, sculptural testaments to survival? These trees are often three to five thousand years old.

Seeing this painting, I was propelled right back to that day.

The artist, Duke Yoshii, clearly skilled and accomplished, has created a realist work of compelling beauty. Painted with heavy impasto and a restrained early-tone palette against a luminous, deep blue sky, the work has a distinctly Sierra Nevada or high desert character. Standing out: confident palette-knife work, understanding and rendition of granite geology, sophisticated color harmony, a convincing likeness of the subject in its environment.

With dimensions overall, including the frame, of 25 1/2 by 19 1/2, the painting commands presence both in size and subject. What’s visible of the painting itself: 23 1/2 by 17 5/8.

The frame appears to be original, in stylistic keeping with the 1960 date on the canvas. See less