DENISE LUHMAN (American, 20th century). TWO BLOUSES, Oil on canvas. Signed and dated 12-81 lower right. Also signed, titled, and dated 1981 on stretcher. - 14 in. x 18 in. Estimate $225-275
EXHIBITED:
The Butler Institute of American Art, Youngstown, OH
52nd Annual National Midyear Show
June 26-August 21, 1988
PROVENANCE: The nationally renowned Capricorn Galleries of Potomac, Maryland, which was founded in 1964. They are from the lifetime collection of Philip Desind (1910-1996) and are fine quality examples of mid to late 20th century American realism. Mr. Desind was recognized as a leading advocate of representational works by experts, critics, and art museums around the country, including the National Museum of American Art. Dr. Louis Zona, Director of the Butler Institute of American Art in Youngstown, Ohio, called Desind "one of America's most important collectors." As a tribute to Desind, The Butler commissioned Harvey Dinnerstein, the well-known New York artist to render his portrait which they unveiled in 1989 on "Phil Desind Day" and it is currently on permanent exhibition. The Washington Post called Desind's huge collection "A trove of top-notch 20th century American realism. The inventory of Desind's collection reads like a Who's Who of contemporary American realism, featuring not only the nationally known players but our local art heroes. Within the genre of realistic painting, his taste was broad and impeccable." Many of the works and artists in this auction were exhibited over the years at the Butler. These lots come directly from Desind's daughter, Barbara Desind Kernan who is continuing the Capricorn Galleries long tradition of excellence.
