Two Framed Vernon Howe Bailey Watercolors

A well-known early twentieth century artist, Vernon Howe Bailey (1874-1953) created this pair of watercolors of European city scenes. Bailey was a member of the Society of Illustrators and the Architectural League of New York. He was the only artist ever authorized to paint the Vatican, including the Pope's private apartments. Many of his works are in the Smithsonian, as well as museums here and abroad.

Bailey traveled extensively throughout Spain in 1921 and 1925, capturing scenes in watercolors and drawings. In 1927, 150 of his drawings and watercolors were published in a book titled "Little Known Towns of Spain." Quoting from Wikipedia: "Bailey's special subjects were city streets, landscapes...scenes in Europe and America. The best known of his drawings are his sketches in pencil of London, his watercolors and drawings of Spain and his drawings of skyscrapers in New York City."

These watercolors are on buff wove paper and both are signed lower right. One of his iconic signatures is in paint or ink and is very clear, while the other is in pencil and not as easily read. The sight size of each is approximately 9 inches by 12 inches. They are framed identically, unmatted in pickled wood under glass. The framed size is 13 inches by 16 inches and 1 1/2 inches deep. While the paintings are from the 1920's, they were framed later, probably in the 1950's.

Each artwork weighs 2 pounds, 10 ounces; the dust papers on the backs are intact and the old hanging wires still sturdy. While there are some nicks in the wooden frames, they present handsomely. The paintings are in excellent condition, with no stains, tears or discoloration. They're not only decorative, but highly collectible artworks by a famous artist.

© PrimpingYourHome.com

PYH 5631