21: THOMAS HART BENTON (1889-1975) PEN AND INK WITH WASH

Thomas Hart Benton (1889-1975)
(Circa 1930s.)
The depiction of a 1930s Tourist Camp related to an extensive series of views the artist created during the summers of the 1920s and 1930s.

See object number 1948.49, the Allen Memorial Art Museum, Oberlin College, Oberlin Ohio for a very similar composition by Benton dated 1931. http://allenartcollection.oberlin.edu/emuseum/view/objects/asitem/id/1973.

Titled 'Western Tourist Camp,' the museum version varies slightly with the addition of a male figure and other more subtle differences. The accompanying essay relates once again how during the 1920s and 30s Benton traveled across the United States sketching the scenes and events he encountered. It goes on to relate how these auto camps and their 'tin can tourists' were a common sight along roads leading to national parks and other tourist destinations throughout the American West in the years prior to World War II.

This work is signed lower right and will be accompanied by a letter of opinion from Henry Adams.
Sight size 9.75 x 14, frame is 19.75 x 24 inches.
Very good condition, the complete sheet, not laid down, no stain, damage or repair.
Provenance: A private Kansas Collection.
$6,000 - $8,000