Paul H. Rawley Oil Painting "Funeral March for a Marionette"
Item Details
An oil painting on canvas by artist Paul H. Rawley (d. circa 1974) titled Funeral March for a Marionette. This painting, ostensibly inspired by a musical piece by composer Charles Gounod, which became famous in the 1960’s when it was used as the opening music for the television show Alfred Hitcock Presents. The painting depicts a group of puppets carrying the form of a companion on a white stretcher, many of them with tears streaming down their doll-like faces. The painting is signed and dated ‘’60’ toward its center and is mounted in a wooden frame. A wire for hanging is present to its verso along with a label bearing a short biography of the artist and information regarding the subject matter, which Rawley had drawn from a real life love affair in which his best friend stole and married Rawley’s girlfriend. The figures in the painting are based on the trio, with Rawley portrayed as a pallbearer. Some years later his girlfriend Mary Lou left her husband and recommenced an affair with Rawley. But after two years she returned to him, after which time Rawley committed suicide. Thus the painting proved to be of a prophetic nature.
Condition
- slight scratching to sides of frame; frame corners slightly loose.
Dimensions
- measures frame; visible painting measures: 82" W x 43" H.
Item #
18LEX024-114-001
