6: BIRGER SANDZEN (1871-1954) OIL ON CANVAS CIRCA 1920

Birger Sandzén (1871-1954)
Mountains and Red Rocks (1920)
The large oil on canvas Rocky Mountain view at tree line is signed lower right front and painted in a unique palette of clean, attractive colors applied in the near-sculptural technique typical of Birger Sandzen's earlier works, though it dates to what scholars refer to as his Middle Period.

The following is from the Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery web site:

Middle Years (1910-1929):

This period is often considered the most dynamic and important of Sandzén's career. Kansas and Colorado landscapes came to the forefront during this time and his importance and recognition as a painter increased. In a letter from March 20, 1912 Sandzén wrote to his brother Gustaf: 'My paintings have, to tell the truth, aroused a great deal of attention. They are not, however, if one reads the reviews 'sensational' - even if the color usage is a little individual. They are simply nature studies. I adhere strictly to nature, but strive for the simplest possible means of expression.'

Birger Sandzén to Gustaf Sandzén, 20 Mar 1912, Sandzén Archives, Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery, Lindsborg, KS.
The canvas measures 28 x 30 inches.
Very good original untouched condition. There are no issues of scratches, losses, repairs, in-painting, chipping, loss of impasto tips, puncture, lifting, touch-up or condition issue of any type to any degree. Normal minor stable craquelure in some areas.
Provenance: A private Mission Hills, Kansas estate, acquired from American Legacy Gallery. American Legacy represented the estate of Birger Sandzen.
$50,000 - $70,000