Francis Chapin (American, 1899-1965), Brittany

Oil on canvas, signed at lower left, presented in a carved wood frame with gallery plaque at lower center, retaining vintage exhibition label.

Stretcher size 29 x 36 1/2 in. Frame dimensions 34 1/2 x 42 in.

From the Collection of Mike & Gail Kansler, Raleigh, North Carolina, by the Interior Decorator John C. Hardy

From the Collection of Mrs. William E. Levis, Perrysburg, Ohio
The Collection of Wylly M. Guterman, North Carolina
Brunk Auctions, March 2, 2008, Lot 506

Exhibited:
Toledo, Ohio, Junior League Exhibition of Paintings and Prints in Toledo Collections, The Toledo Museum of Art

Francis Chapin was an American painter and educator affectionately known as the “Dean of Chicago Painters.” He studied at the Art Institute of Chicago, where he received the prestigious Bryan Lathrop Fellowship in 1927, allowing him to spend a year studying in Europe. Chapin later taught at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and at its Ox-Bow summer school in Saugatuck, Michigan, where he also served as director. He became particularly celebrated for his vibrant, energetic views of Chicago during the 1930s and 1940s.

A prolific traveler, Chapin also painted in Mexico, France, Spain, Saugatuck, and Martha’s Vineyard, where he spent many summers and taught at the Old Sculpin Gallery. His work was exhibited at major institutions including the Art Institute of Chicago, Museum of Modern Art, Whitney Museum of American Art, Corcoran Gallery, and National Academy of Design. His paintings are held in numerous public collections, including the Art Institute of Chicago, Brooklyn Museum, Denver Art Museum, and Butler Institute of American Art.

Area of flaking and instability at upper left.