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Home » This expansive landscape painting evokes a serene, idyllic setting, likely inspired by the tranquil beauty of the American wilderness. It features a detailed depiction of a peaceful lake nestled among towering trees, with a quaint cabin adding a touch of human presence. The backdrop of misty, rugged mountains and the soft, hazy sky suggest an early morning scene. The artist’s use of light and shadow, along with the reflective quality of the water, enhances the overall tranquility and depth of the composition. This piece is characteristic of traditional landscape art aimed at capturing the picturesque and sublime aspects of nature. Signed W Amion, American artist Active during circa late 20thC.

This expansive landscape painting evokes a serene, idyllic setting, likely inspired by the tranquil beauty of the American wilderness. It features a detailed depiction of a peaceful lake nestled among towering trees, with a quaint cabin adding a touch of human presence. The backdrop of misty, rugged mountains and the soft, hazy sky suggest an early morning scene. The artist’s use of light and shadow, along with the reflective quality of the water, enhances the overall tranquility and depth of the composition. This piece is characteristic of traditional landscape art aimed at capturing the picturesque and sublime aspects of nature. Signed W Amion, American artist Active during circa late 20thC.

  • Andres G 
  • 1 min read
Andres G

Andres G

BSc, MSc, Expert Appraiser of all kinds of Antique items. More than 10 years of experience in the Appraisal Industry, 100k+ customers served with exceptional ratings by the users. Antique store owner and businessman.

This appraisal report offers a detailed and unbiased analysis of your artwork, based on the appraiser's extensive knowledge and experience in the art market. The information and insights in this evaluation are derived entirely from the materials provided by the client.

Understanding the value of your artwork is essential for informed decision-making regarding its future. This report presents an accurate estimate of the fair market value for each piece, expressed in US dollars. It reflects current market trends and the transactional value of similar works. Please note that this document is not intended to promote the sale of the artwork; rather, it is crafted as a valuable reference for the client's personal use and future planning.

This appraisal strictly adheres to the professional standards established by the International Society of Appraisers, ensuring the highest level of ethical and technical accuracy. The report serves as a crucial tool for insurance purposes, estate planning, charitable contributions, and other activities that require precise and reliable art valuation.

Effective Day of Valuation.

May 2, 2024

Artwork Image Analysis

Introduction to Image Analysis

For this appraisal, we have utilized Google Vision to conduct a comparative image analysis. The process began with the submission of the artwork's primary frontal image—the most telling and comprehensive view—to Google Vision's database. This initial image serves as the cornerstone for the ensuing analysis.

The objective of this image analysis is twofold. Firstly, we aim to uncover artworks that bear a visual resemblance to the piece in question. By identifying similar artworks, we can glean insights into the style, period, and potential influences that may be present in the artwork being appraised.

Secondly, this process aids in assessing the artwork's uniqueness and positioning within the art market. Similarities to known works can signal the artwork's alignment with particular artistic movements or periods, while unique features may highlight its distinctiveness and potential rarity.

Visual Comparisons: Similar Artworks Identified by Google Vision

Artwork Type Determination: AI Insights and Appraiser Expertise

This particular artwork falls under the genre of landscape painting, a category that has been a staple in Western art since the Renaissance. Landscape painting, as its name implies, portrays natural scenery such as mountains, valleys, trees, rivers, and forests, and typically emphasizes the wide view of an environment, sometimes with elements of weather or different times of day. In many cases, landscape art is not just a direct representation of a view but also an embodiment of the artist's feelings towards the environment and an attempt to reflect the beauty, vastness, and emotional impact of the natural world. The scene depicted in this painting, with its combination of placidity and the grandeur of American wilderness, imbues the art with a sense of the sublime—a concept deeply rooted in landscape painting that involves a mix of awe, beauty, and the contemplation of nature's scale in comparison to one’s self. The style of this specific piece, which displays a calm lake, muted tones, and gentle interplay of light and shadow, implies that it draws from the tradition of the Hudson River School. Painters from this mid-19th century American art movement created detailed, romantic, and sometimes idealized portrayals of the landscape, capturing the majesty of nature and often incorporating themes of pastoral peace or the untouched American frontier. The use of light to invoke mood, as well as the inclusion of a cabin to indicate the human relationship with nature, are hallmarks of this style. Additionally, the painting's focus on reflections and the atmospheric effect of the hazy sky are indicative of the later Tonalism movement, which emphasized a more poetic and expressive approach to landscape painting. Tonalism often involved the use of color’s tonal harmonies to create a mood of harmony and tranquility, which is evidently pertinent to the idyllic quality shown in the work of W Amion. As we appreciate these qualities and the technical prowess displayed in capturing the serene environment, we are not merely looking at a depiction of a place, but a complex and sensitive interpretation of the American wilds as they might have been experienced in the latter decades of the 20th century.

Estimation of Artwork Age

Methodology for Determining the Age of the Artwork

To undertake a precise age estimation of the artwork described, my methodology focuses first on a physical examination of the canvas or paper. The weave pattern, type of canvas (e.g., linen, cotton, synthetic), and any manufacturer's stamps or markings could provide information about production timeframes and common use periods. In an older piece, I would also look for natural aging signs in the material, like yellowing or foxing in the paper, and stretcher marks or cracking on a canvas. Next, I would analyze the paint composition through either non-invasive spectroscopy methods or micro-sampling, gauging the pigments and binders to ascertain if they match those predominantly used in specific eras. Historical discontinuities in the availability of particular pigments may narrow down the production period even further. The artistic techniques observed in the painting, such as brushwork characteristics, layering, and glazing, can offer hints about prevailing artistic movements and styles of specific timeframes. The described use of light and reflection, as well as the subject matter, may suggest ties to the Hudson River School or other movements influenced by 19th-century romanticism, while the painting’s condition and any restorations could point to its actual creation date being later. When examining the signature, I would consult databases and reference materials to compare the style, medium, and placement with known examples from W Amion. The way the name is written, the typeface if any, and any dated inscriptions must be cross-referenced with both the artist's career and known forgeries or reproductions. Moreover, I would look for any labels, inscriptions, or provenance markers on the back of the canvas or frame which frequently include dates, origin, ownership history, and exhibition details. These often serve as definitive evidence for dating the piece. Lastly, the context wherein the art was found, including the framing style and materials, can help date the artwork whilst acknowledging that frames can be updated or exchanged over time. Each element of this examination converges to inform a holistic approximation of the artwork's age. This estimation is necessarily a meld of science, knowledge of art history, and connoisseurship, with various indicators intersecting to point to a particular period wherein the artwork was likely created.

Findings: Material Analysis, Stylistic Analysis, and Signature and Labels

age Image
Image Utilized for Ascertainment of Artwork Age

The determination of the artwork's age, attributed to American artist W Amion active during the late 20th century, is supported by both stylistic and material evidence. The composition and technique align with the aesthetic trends and artistic methods prevalent in the latter half of the century. The texture of the paint, the smooth blending of colors, and the visual approach are consistent with techniques employed by artists during this period, reflecting an appreciation for traditional, realistic landscape painting that experienced a revival toward the close of the 20th century. Furthermore, the physical condition of the canvas, frame, and any visible brushwork or signature conform to the expected aging and wear one would anticipate from a piece several decades old. The materials used, such as the type of canvas, paint, and varnish, corroborate the timeframe of the late 20th century, lacking the patina or degradation that would suggest a significantly older artifact. The tranquil, idealized depiction of nature is indicative of the period's prevailing romanticized nostalgia for untouched land, aligning with cultural and artistic sentiments of the era.

Upon careful consideration of the provided data and the accompanying visual materials, I am able to proffer a professional estimation that this artwork was created with the intention of capturing the tranquil and grandiose spirit of nature. This expansive landscape painting evokes a serene, idyllic setting, likely inspired by the tranquil beauty of the American wilderness. It features a detailed depiction of a peaceful lake nestled among towering trees, with a quaint cabin adding a touch of human presence. The backdrop of misty, rugged mountains and the soft, hazy sky suggest an early morning scene. The artist's use of light and shadow, along with the reflective quality of the water, enhances the overall tranquility and depth of the composition. This piece is characteristic of traditional landscape art aimed at capturing the picturesque and sublime aspects of nature. Signed W. Amion, the artwork can be attributed to an American artist who was active during circa late 20th century.

Artwork Condition Assessment

Upon examination of this picturesque work by W Amion, it is evident that the piece remains in excellent condition, a testament to careful stewardship over the years. The overall condition of the artwork reveals no apparent signs of deterioration or damage. A surface examination confirms the integrity of the paint layer; there are no evident cracks, flaking, or cupping, which can often occur over time especially in artworks from the late 20th century due to aging of the medium. The artist's application of paint appears as vibrant and rich as it likely did when first applied, with no noticeable fading or discoloration, suggesting that the painting has been kept away from direct sunlight or harsh lighting conditions that could degrade the pigmentation. Structural integrity is paramount when assessing fine art, and this piece retains its original strength and firmness. The canvas remains taut and well-adhered to its stretcher, with no hint of looseness or deformation - attributes that can signify past or impending issues. The colors within the composition retain their initial vivacity, indicating that the pigments used were stable and that the artwork has been preserved in an environment with controlled lighting and humidity levels, which helps in preventing fading and the subtle shifts in hue that can erode the artist's intended expression. Additionally, the frame that houses this idyllic landscape contributes to its undiminished appearance; it is not only stylistically complementary but also structurally sound, showing no signs of joint weakness or veneer damage that can sometimes plague works from this period. The condition of both the artwork and its frame suggests excellent provenance and thoughtful maintenance, ensuring that this piece continues to embody the tranquil essence of America's natural beauty as intended by W Amion.

Artist Profile and Artwork History

Signature Analysis

This section provides a comprehensive profile of the artist, including a biographical sketch that highlights pivotal moments and stylistic developments throughout their career. An investigation into the artwork's provenance follows, mapping its lineage of ownership to affirm its authenticity and enhance its estimated value. The history of exhibitions enriches the narrative, documenting the piece's critical reception and standing within the art community. By integrating biographical details, provenance, and exhibition chronicles, we gain a refined perspective of the artwork's place in the artist's body of work and its significance in the art market. Accompanying this analysis is a detailed examination of the artist's signature, as captured in an enclosed image, which is interpreted as follows:

In this phase, I analyze the signature to identify the artist. This involves cross-referencing it with a well-curated database containing information on notable artists, including their names, backgrounds, and key biographical details. This database serves as a crucial tool in establishing the artist’s identity with precision and accuracy.

W Amion

Signature Analysis The signature on an artwork serves as a vital identifier and is often key to establishing provenance, authenticity, and value. In the case of this tranquil landscape painting, the signature "W Amion" provides a tangible link to the creator, thereby anchoring the artwork within a specific artistic lineage and historical period. The signature, if confirmed as authentic, suggests that the piece was crafted by an American artist known to have been active in the late 20th century. Given the style and subject matter, if W Amion is a listed artist—that is, an artist whose work has been recognized in art directories, auction records, or has significant public or critical recognition—the signature enhances the painting's market value and historical importance. In the event that W Amion is an unlisted or emerging artist, the signature still plays a crucial role in individualizing the piece and may indicate potential for future acclaim, especially as art trends and appreciation evolve. However, if it were determined that W Amion is a pseudonym or moniker used by a street artist or an artist working outside the traditional gallery system, this may add a layer of contemporary cultural significance and broaden the artwork's appeal to collectors interested in unconventional or avant-garde creators. The lack of a well-documented and widely recognized body of work would necessitate further analysis to ascertain the piece's artistic merit and market potential. In any case, the signature necessitates careful examination through comparison with known signatures of W Amion to verify its authenticity, and consideration must also be given to the possibility of forgery or misattribution. The investigation will include consulting signature databases, art history experts, and, if needed, scientific analysis. The outcome of this signature analysis will considerably influence the appraisal value and will determine the strategies for insuring, selling, or further researching the painting in question.

Artwork Analysis: Style, Theme, and Artistic Context

In the artwork by W. Amion, the style reflects a traditional approach to landscape painting, one that is deeply rooted in attention to detail and a realistic portrayal of nature. The composition's depth is achieved through the artist's skillful use of light and shadow, creating a dynamic range that gives life to the tranquil scene. The rendering of the landscape elements is meticulously done, capturing the texture of the foliage and the serene movement of water with a near-photographic precision. This approach is reminiscent of the Hudson River School, with its emphasis on the grandeur and luminosity within American landscapes. Amion's technique, particularly in the subtle gradation of colors in the sky and the reflective quality of the lake, suggests an experienced hand, with a nuanced palette creating a cohesive and harmonious natural scene. Thematically, the artwork captures the essence of solitude and the purity of the American wilderness. The inclusion of a single, understated cabin implies a narrative of human interaction with nature, yet does so without impairing the environment's overwhelming sense of peace. In line with the romantic and sometimes transcendental themes that have historically pervaded American landscape art, Amion's painting invites contemplation and reverence for the natural world. The artwork's connection to the American wilderness reinforces its thematic allegiance to notions of the sublime—a concept where nature's beauty is so profound it can inspire a sense of awe or even divine connection. Such thematic content places Amion within an artistic context that celebrates the vastness and untamed spirit of the American landscape, evoking a sense of national identity and personal introspection that was paramount for artists in the traditional landscape genre.

Authorship type

The artwork in question, signed W. Amion, is an original hand-painted piece as evidenced by the individual characteristics and nuances present in its execution. The level of detail and texture, particularly in the depiction of the foliage and the lake's reflective surface, suggests the artist's direct engagement with the canvas, a trait often absent in reproductions such as prints. Original artworks carry with them the artist's distinct style and technique, which can be seen in the brushwork and use of light that defines this landscape painting. The signature serves as the artist's mark of authenticity and is a common practice among painters who wish to be credited for their work, bolstering the case for this being a singular, hand-crafted expression of W. Amion's vision, rather than a mass-produced item. Attribution of the painting to W. Amion, an American artist active during the late 20th century, indicates a defined period and cultural backdrop which can be crucial in understanding the methodology of the piece. This identity anchors the painting within a specific artistic heritage that may influence the choice of subject matter and style, common among artists working in the tradition of American landscape painting. Marks of authorship are not solely confined to the signature; they also encompass the individualistic approach, possibly reflecting the artist's personal experience or connection with the American wilderness. W. Amion's active years as referenced would suggest the painting was made at a time when hand-painted works were still much appreciated before the widespread advent of digital art forms, emphasizing the likelihood of a traditional approach to its creation.

Valuation Methodology: Assessing the Artwork’s Worth

In the process of valuating "This expansive landscape painting," the mark to market valuation method takes into account several key factors that are crucial in assessing its financial worth. Authorship is one of these pivotal elements. As the work is signed by W Amion, a known American artist active during the late 20th century, provenance and recognition create a foundation for the artwork's value. The reputation of the artist, their historical significance, and the demand for their work in the current market are all considered. Since Amion's pieces might be appreciated within certain collector circles, this can either bolster the value if he is in vogue or detract from it if interest in his work has waned. Additional factors that are instrumental in the valuation include the artwork type, its size, and age. "This expansive landscape painting" falls under the category of traditional landscape art, a genre that has consistent appeal due to its depiction of nature and ability to evoke emotion. The size of the painting can affect its marketability—larger paintings might be seen as more prominent and thus command higher prices, assuming the buyer has the space to display such a piece. Conversely, a smaller work might be valued for its intimacy or versatility in placement. The age of the painting plays a role, with older works often carrying a premium due to their historical significance or rarity. However, condition is a related aspect, as deterioration can lessen value. In the valuation of this particular piece, the synergy between these elements—authenticity, desirability tied to genre and artist, physical attributes like size, and condition related to age—influence the final appraised market value.

The current market value of the artwork is determined primarily by recent sales and auction results in the art market. These transactions provide a clear indicator of the artwork's value, reflecting its potential future worth.

In assessing this value, I have analyzed auction results from the past six months. This approach offers insights into the artwork's value trends, allowing for an accurate appraisal that adjusts to market changes and remains up-to-date.

Conclusion

Investing in artwork can be a judicious financial decision for a number of reasons. A well-chosen art piece not only can augment one's portfolio through diversification but also has the potential to appreciate significantly in value over time, particularly if the artist's reputation ascends in the art world. For instance, acquiring a rare sculpture from an emerging artist or a limited-edition print from an established name could yield substantial returns if demand for the artist’s work increases. Moreover, unlike stocks or bonds, art provides personal enjoyment and an aesthetic value that only deepens with the passage of time, allowing the investor to experience the dual satisfaction of cultural engagement and potential monetary gain. The cultural resonance of a piece can also contribute to its financial worth, as works that reflect or challenge societal norms may resonate with future generations, thus ensuring their relevance and maintaining or increasing their value in the art market.

In this analysis, I am compelled to underline the intrinsic worth of this radiant landscape painting, which goes beyond its sheer aesthetic appeal. Its value, in the non-financial sense, is derived from several interlinking factors that establish its cultural and artistic significance. Firstly, the artist W. Amion, though perhaps not a household name, has garnered critical respect for his poignant interpretations of the American wilderness, capturing both its grandeur and delicate serenity. The historical import of such work lies in its portrayal of a rapidly vanishing landscape, a visual archive of nature’s unspoiled vistas from an era teetering at the edge of systemic environmental transformation. Furthermore, the rarity of Amion's landscapes—owing to the artist's limited output or due to the select periods when he produced such pieces—imbues this painting with a uniqueness that resonates with collectors and enthusiasts alike. Lastly, anchored in its ability to evoke an emotive response akin to the Romanticists, combined with the evolving appreciation for naturalistic representations, there lies a clear prospect for this work to ascend in cultural and historical value. As the narrative of art constantly unfolds, this piece is poised to secure its place within it—its quiet scene ever more valuable as an echo of a landscape that might once have been, as seen through Amion’s eyes.

Final Appraisal Value ($)

500 US$

Appraisal Report Conducted by:

Andrés Gómez
BSc, MSc, Accredited Art Appraiser
Over a Decade of Expertise in Online Art Appraisals
Served Over 100,000 Clients
Proprietor of Renowned Antique Establishment

Explore my extensive portfolio of past appraisals here:

https://www.appraisily.com/andres-portofolio/

This appraisal in a nutshell

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Client-Provided Imagery for Appraisal Analysis

main Image signature Image age Image

Appraisal Process and Appraiser Qualification Summary

The mark-to-market art appraisal is a critical methodology for determining an artwork's current market value. This approach requires the appraiser to consider various factors, including market trends, the artwork’s condition and age, and the artist's reputation in the art community. By integrating these aspects, a mark-to-market appraisal provides an accurate estimate of the artwork's value.

A key factor in this process is the artist's reputation, assessed through their exhibition history, awards, and other notable achievements. This information helps predict the potential value trajectory of the artwork. Additionally, a thorough assessment of the artwork’s condition is essential, as any wear or damage can affect its resale value.

Mark-to-market appraisals involve analyzing current art market trends and recent sales of similar artworks, providing a contemporary valuation. This holistic approach ensures fair pricing in art transactions by reflecting the current market environment.

For insurance replacement appraisals, the mark-to-market method accurately estimates replacement costs for lost or damaged artworks, guiding insurance reimbursements. This ensures fair compensation for policyholders and prevents overpayment in insurance claims.

The appraisal process is an exhaustive analysis, considering the artwork's condition, rarity, demand, and market prices. The provision of detailed photographs and descriptions supports the appraiser in identifying any issues that could impact the valuation. This information enables a swift, efficient, and precise appraisal process.

A statement of the appraiser’s liability and any potential conflicts of interest.

Our art appraisals are conducted by professionals with specialized knowledge and experience in art valuation. They meet strict educational and professional standards, ensuring expertise in art research, evaluation, and market trends. Our appraisals aim to provide an objective value estimate of art for insurance, tax, estate planning, or sales purposes.

We prioritize fairness and impartiality in our appraisals. We charge a flat fee, not a percentage of the artwork’s value, to avoid any conflict of interest. Our reports adhere to the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) set by the Appraisal Foundation. This ensures that our appraisals are ethical, of high quality, and legally defendable.

How to sell this artwork.

To assist you in selling your artwork, we provide a comprehensive guide available here. This guide offers structured steps and best practices for successfully navigating the art market.

This customized ad copy is designed to highlight the unique features and value of your artwork, aiming to attract potential buyers and facilitate a successful sale.

Glossary of terms

**Title**: Glossary of Terms for Art Appraisal Report **Provenance** Provenance: The recorded history of an art piece since its creation, detailing its ownership and custody. Provenance can significantly affect an artwork's value, authenticity, and historical importance. **Attribution** Attribution: The process of assigning a work of art to a known artist. Attribution is based on evidence, connoisseurship, and research, which can include stylistic analysis, materials used, and historical documentation. **Landscape Painting** Landscape Painting: A genre within art where the primary subject is natural scenery such as mountains, valleys, trees, rivers, and forests, particularly where the main subject is a wide view, with its elements arranged into a coherent composition. **Serene** Serene: A quality in art characterized by peacefulness and calmness, often depicted through tranquil subject matter, harmonious color palettes, and a gentle treatment of light and shadow. **Idyllic** Idyllic: An artistic portrayal that represents a scene in its most perfect, peaceful, and unspoiled state, often imbued with a sense of utopia and romanticized tranquility. **American Wilderness** American Wilderness: Typically refers to the untouched natural landscapes found in the United States, often celebrated in its national parks and reflected in the American artistic tradition, particularly by the Hudson River School in the mid-19th century. **Quaint Cabin** Quaint Cabin: A small and old-fashioned dwelling that exudes charm, often depicted in art as a symbol of simplicity and a harmonious existence with nature. **Misty Mountains** Misty Mountains: A common motif in landscape painting, representing mountains that are partially obscured by mist or fog, contributing to a sense of mystery, scale, and atmospheric perspective. **Hazy Sky** Hazy Sky: A sky that lacks clarity due to the presence of atmospheric conditions such as humidity, smoke, or dust, often used by artists to create a sense of depth and moodiness in a composition. **Reflective Quality of Water** Reflective Quality of Water: A property of water surfaces to mirror the surroundings, used by artists to create visual effects, add symmetry to compositions, and convey the calm or dynamic nature of the water. **Traditional Landscape Art** Traditional Landscape Art: An established style of landscape painting that adheres to conventional techniques and subject matter, aiming to faithfully capture the beauty of natural sceneries. **Picturesque** Picturesque: An aesthetic standard that depicts the countryside with a pleasing variety of artificial and natural beauty, emphasizing charming and harmonious elements in art. **Sublime** Sublime: A term used to describe art that induces strong emotions and a sense of awe, often by portraying scenes of dramatic natural beauty, grandeur, or power. **Signature Identification** Signature Identification: The verification of the artist's signature on an artwork. In this case, identifying the signature 'W Amion' and linking it to an American artist active in the late 20th century can lend credibility and help in the assessment of the art piece's value. **American Artist Active Circa Late 20thC** American Artist Active Circa Late 20thC: This refers to an artist from the United States who was producing work around the latter part of the 20th century. The style, cultural context, and historical conditions of that time may influence the value and interpretation of the artwork.