Leon A. Makielski (American, 1885-1974), St. Mark's Column, Venice

Oil on panel, circa 1912, signed at lower right, retaining gallery label to verso, framed.

Sight size 10 x 8 in.; Frame dimensions 20 1/2 x 18 3/4 in.

Leon Alexander Makielski was an American painter and art instructor known for his Impressionist-inspired scenes. Born in Pennsylvania to Polish immigrants and raised in Indiana, he studied at the Art Institute of Chicago before continuing his education in Paris at the Académie Julian and Académie de la Grande Chaumière.

While in Europe, he painted in the Giverny artists' colony and exhibited at the Paris Salons. Returning to the U.S. in 1913, he taught at the University of Michigan from 1915 to 1927 and painted portraits of prominent figures such as Robert Frost and Eliel Saarinen. His works are held by institutions like the University of Michigan Museum of Art and the Minneapolis Institute of Arts. Upon his death, around 400 artworks were found in his studio, underscoring his prolific output.

Good estate condition, small area of retouch to the center visible under UV light inspection.