Birger Sandzen (Kansas, 1871-1954)

Golden Aspens

1929

The vertical format oil on canvas from the Sandzen's most desirable Middle Period is signed and dated lower right front.

Paintings from, basically, 1910 to 1930 are considered more significant for their robust palette of unique and intense colors applied in 100s of broad, confident, one-and-done strokes of high-relief impasto, resulting in canvases that seem as much chiseled as painted.

Numbered 2315 in the Sandzen card catalogue, and titled as above, the artist's notes reference a local Art Association's interest in ''acquiring another painting.'' Indeed, The Lindsborg Progress for Thursday, June 12, 1930 details the transaction: ''The purchase of Golden Aspens, on which members of the Art Association have set their hearts since its first showing here with the Sandzen exhibition early in the year, marks a significant change for the advancement of art in Salina, according to the Salina journal. The picture is a fine example of the best work of the famous artist - strength of color and form, individuality. Mr. Sandzen has ardent admirers in Salina, both as an artist, and personally; he has done far more than any other person to make the beginnings of the Salina Art Association, a success, and it is fitting that a picture of his creation should be the first real stride forward, taken by the association in acquiring a permanent art collection of museum proportions.''

The canvas measures 40.5 x 30 inches, framed size of 46 x 36 inches.

Provenance: The property of a rural Kansas public library. Acquired directly from the artist.

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Very good condition, professionally restored in limited areas and re-lined by Western Center For The Conservation Of The Arts in Denver, Colorado, March of 1999.Scattered areas of in painting, primarily in the upper 10 inches of the composition with a few more touches down the right side, and in the lower right area. One touch along the left where sky and horizon meet. approximately 5% or less of the total surface area with inpainting, 95% or more being original and untouched as shown in images.Overall very good condition, free from surface soiling, no paint loss, punctures, chipping, or other issues. The stretchers are original with pencil inscriptions in the artist's hand.