† Noel Rockmore
(American/Louisiana, 1928-1995)
"Coney Island Side Shows", 1953
oil on canvas
signed and dated lower right; E. L. Borenstein catalogue sheet and titled label en verso.
Framed.
30" x 40", framed 35" x 44-1/2"
Provenance: Previously in the Collection of E. L. "Larry" Borenstein, New Orleans.

As an emerging New York City artist, Noel Rockmore gained critical acclaim and was selected to participate in exhibitions at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Whitney Museum of Art and Pennsylvania Academy of Art in the 1950s. By 1953 Rockmore was represented by the Harry Salpeter Gallery in New York City.

The hustle and bustle of Coney Island with its boardwalk beside the beach, crowds of people, carnival rides, side shows and concessions intrigued the artist. After the failure of his marriage, Rockmore moved to a small house on Surf Avenue near the park. The artist created a series of paintings and etchings of Coney Island. The amusement park was known for continuous sideshows throughout the day including exotic animals and various acts.

Surface dirt and toning of varnish layer; areas of paint loss upper center and upper right; occasional surface mark; small dark accretions upper right. Frame with surface dirt, brown stains, surface marks and nicks. New Orleans Auction Galleries is pleased to issue and opinion of any lot; the absence of a condition report does not indicate that a lot is perfect condition or free from damage and/or wear.  Please understand that New Orleans Auction Galleries employs no professional conservators. All statements in any condition report, or statements taken verbally, are purely our best opinions, and not blanket statements of fact issued by this auction house.  Prospective buyers should examine each lot so as to satisfy themselves concerning condition, genuineness, importance, age, etc. Regardless of any statements made in writing or verbally, all lots are sold strictly "As Is" in accordance with section 2 of our Conditions of Sale.  No returns will be accepted on the basis of condition.