Louise Pershing Monumental Abstract Oil Painting on Canvas

Item Details

Louise Pershing (Pennsylvania, 1904-1986)
Untitled, n.d.
Oil painting on canvas
Signed to lower right
Signed and inscribed to verso
44’ W x 79’ H

An abstract oil painting on canvas by American artist Louise Pershing (1904-1986). This work features a large structure with curved and angular appendages, portrayed with large textural and gestural brushstrokes in black, brown, gray, and white. The work is signed ‘Pershing’ to the lower right and to the verso. It is inscribed by hand to the verso, part of which reads ‘she change wheel in back’, perhaps providing the title. The painting is presented in a thin black painted wood frame.

Louise Pershing was the niece of US Army General John Joseph “Black Jack” Pershing (1860-1948). She studied art at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Arts in Philadelphia as well as the Carnegie Institute of Technology in Pittsburgh, and the University of Pittsburgh. Most notably, she studied under celebrated abstract expressionist Hans Hoffman in Cape Cod. Louise was a member of the National Association of Women Artists, the Pittsburgh Watercolor Society, and the Associated Artists of Pittsburgh. She had a solo exhibition at the Carnegie Museum of Art in 1945.

One of Pershing’s largest works can be found along Sixth Avenue in downtown Pittsburgh. Executed in 1974, The Flow sculpture was produced from COR-TEN steel, a type of steel invented by the U.S. Steel Corporation in Pittsburgh. Inspired by a visit to their open hearth, the sculpture is an abstract depiction of steelmaking.

• Please note, this is an item that may be especially difficult to move and/or transport. Unless the shipping option is selected, the winner is responsible for bringing appropriate assistance, vehicle, proper materials, and any necessary tools to pickup.

Condition

- general surface wear and rubbing throughout painting, especially present in lower half; faint scratches marks scattered throughout; wear in frame includes small chips, stains, scratches, and finish loss throughout.

Dimensions

- measurement of frame; canvas size measures approximately 44" W x 79" H.

Item #

18DCC450-059