6: THOMAS HART BENTON (1889-1975) PENCIL SIGNED LITHOGRAPH

Thomas Hart Benton (1889-1975)
Running Horses (1955)
The iconic Benton lithograph published by Associated American Artists is signed by the artist in pencil below the image lower right. Among the lowest of Benton editions, only 75 impressions of this image were turned over to AAA for distribution, though a total of 100 prints were made.

Benton's comments in Fath, where this is entered as number 78, are simply, ''Again, horses running with a steam train.''

That comment is likely referring to an earlier entry in the catalog of his prints where he talks about The Race, a similar image. Of horses and locomotives. Benton observes: ''Common enough scene in the days of the steam engine. Why did horses so often run with the steam trains while they now pay no attention to the Diesels?''
Image measures 12.5 x 16.5, sheet is 15.5 x 19.25, and frame is 23.5 x 27.5 inches.
Very good to good condition noting some very faint toning around the image and a band of discoloration along the lower edge from masking tape residue verso. Generally very good, intact, the full sheet with untrimmed deckle edges. no other visible stain, no damage, repair, punctures or tears. This strong, dark impression displays very fine in frame and mat.
Provenance: The private collection of a Clay County Circuit Court Judge
$6,000 - $9,000