Featured Lot: Guy Rose, “Indian Tobacco Trees, La Jolla”

In this ongoing series for Fine Art Today, we take a longer look at the history and features of a soon-to-be-available artwork of note. This week: Guy Rose, “Indian Tobacco Trees, La Jolla.”
 
Widely regarded as one of America’s most acclaimed Impressionist painters, Guy Rose (1867-1925) was afforded the opportunity to pursue his love of art at an early age. He was born to Leonard John Rose — a prominent California state senator — and Amanda Jones Rose. The family lived on a lovely and expansive California ranch, where Rose developed his love of nature and artistic skill. His skills only improved after a hunting accident left him hospitalized for some weeks.
 
By 1884, Rose was studying under the stewardship of Emil Carlsen at the California School of Design. In 1888, the painter began his tenure at the Académie Julian in Paris. It was during Rose’s European studies and, in particular, Paris that exposed him to the Impressionists, who at this time were flourishing in the City of Light. Claude Monet, known as “the master,” befriended Rose and mentored his development. Rose’s pictures produced between 1904 and 1912 vividly display Monet’s influence and are among the artist’s most remarkable paintings.
 
Rose has become one of America’s most championed Impressionists, and the market for his work is perhaps hotter than ever, with prices frequently reaching six and seven figures. Heading to auction on April 12 via Bonhams, Rose’s “Indian Tobacco Trees, La Jolla” is an outstanding opportunity to own an original by the American master. The exquisite work was produced late in the artist’s career and displays heavy influence from Monet. Perched atop a rocky cliff, viewers find themselves gazing through the trees and out to sea. The gorgeous orange, red, yellow, and brown found within the shoreline contrast with and balance the cool tones of the ocean. The surface of the piece is splendid, with expressive flicks of the brush that activate the work and give it life. Auction estimates are between $600,000 and $900,000.
 
To learn more and view the entire catalogue of the sale, visit Bonhams.
 
This article was featured in Fine Art Today, a weekly e-newsletter from Fine Art Connoisseur magazine. To start receiving Fine Art Today for free, click here.