Leo Blake (American, 1887-1976) oil on board painting depicting a stream flowing through a winter landscape covered in snow, rendered in an impasto technique, with trees and a mountain range visible beneath a blue sky in the background. Signed "Leo, B. Blake" lower right. Ink inscription with possible title "Magnor," en verso of board. Housed in a white painted wooden frame with faint gilt trim. Sight: 15 1/2" H x 17 1/2" W. Framed: 19 1/2" H x 21 1/2" W. Provenance: the estate of Earl and Annette Bruhn of Chicago, close friends of the late artist. Three other lots of work by Blake from the same estate are also being sold in this auction. Biography: Leo B. Blake studied at the Art Institute of Chicago from 1908-1912, and began his career in illustration and commercial art. In 1933, he relocated to New England and set up a studio in the Berkshires, where he focused on painting landscapes and taught classes, including at Williams College (1937-1941) and the Berkshire Museum (1943-1953). Blake was a member of numerous organizations including the Pittsfield Art League (where he served as president), the North Shore Arts Association, the Illinois Academy of Fine Arts, and the American Artists Professional League. He exhibited at the Art Institute of Chicago, the Connecticut Academy of Fine Arts, the Salmagundi Club, and the Berkshire Museum.

Overall very good condition. Frame with areas of loss, largest 1 3/4", to white paint.