RUDOLPH RUSICKA (BOHEMIAN-AMERICAN, 1883-1978) PORTRAITS, LOT OF TWO, watercolor and gouache on paper laid on board, each stylized, bust-length depiction of a handsome gentleman, signed, unframed, likely noteworthy actors or entertainers of the era. Circa 1950. Each 16" x 12".
Minor to moderate areas of staining/discoloration.
Provenance: From the private collection of Gary and Dr. Joy Graham, Winchester, VA.
Catalogue Note: Born in Bohemia, Rudolph Rusicka (1883-1978) immigrated with his family to the United States in 1894 and settled in Chicago, where the young artist studied at the Art Institute from 1900-1902. Successful as an illustrator early in life, Rusicka lived and worked in New York City for most of his career. In addition to producing work for various books and publications, the artist also worked for the Mergenthaler Linotype Company for over 50 years as a designer and consultant and was awarded a medal from the American Institute of Graphic Arts in 1935 in recognition of his contributions to the field of design, particularly typographical development. His work is represented in a number of important institutions, including the Chicago Institute of Arts, the Brooklyn Museum, The Amon Carter Museum of Art, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Carnegie Institute, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the Smithsonian American Art Museum, among others._x000D_
The present examples exhibit Rusicka's mature modern style characterized by strong lines and contrasting shadows, producing a decidedly noir effect.

Minor to moderate areas of staining/discoloration.