G. F. Kenney | Foreshortening

Saugus, MA
Circa: 1930
Size: 7” (h) x 9 (w) x 1 1/2” (d)
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Patience is a virtue if you have the option; however, it’s not always your choice. I first saw this unique piece of American Folk Art about 20 years ago. Needless to say, it left an indelible impression.

Thinking outside the box or sculptural plane, as it were, it’s hard to talk about this piece without first addressing the articulated arm that literally hangs off the main body of the carving as an appendage. This inventive addition is compelling and brings the sculpture alive—genius!

Carved in relief from pine crate-wood, the sculptor brings a volume to the subject that defies its half-inch depth. The expressive carving of the emotive face and the figure’s lefthand is masterful. The complex gestures of both hands are adeptly carved, as are the child’s tongue and teeth, not to mention the hair and shirt. Everything is spot on—including that 1930s turquoise ground that offsets the figure.

The piece is signed on the back, G. F. Kenney, Saugus, Massachusettes, and entitled, Foreshortening. Unfortunately, no other works or information about Kenney are known, which is a shame as this indelible work ranks among my all-time favorites in American Folk Art.

HIGH RESOLUTION IMAGES AVAILABLE.

Provenance: Harris Diamant; Hill Gallery

Condition: Excellent with wear commensurate with age and use.

Price: $7,800.00

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