(Scottish/America, 1860-1934)
The Schenley Mansion, 1928, signed and dated lower right "John Kane 1928", oil on canvas, 18-1/4 x 36-1/4 in.; carved gilt wood frame, 24-1/2 x 42-1/4 in.
Provenance: Valentine Collection (per MOMA label verso); Michael L. Laughlin Estate, Aiken, South Carolina
Exhibited: Museum of Modern Art (presumably), n.d., label verso "Museum of Modern Art /loan//38.1270/Valentine"
Note: The Schenley Mansion was built in the Stanton Heights region of Pittsburgh in 1830, by a prominent lawyer named William Croghan Jr. The 22 room, Greek Revival "Picnic House" was intended as a home for his only daughter Mary Elizabeth Croghan. Mary Elizabeth, at boarding school in New York, eloped in 1842 at age 16, marrying the British Captain Croghan. She scandalized not just Pittsburgh society, but British society as well, and never returned to live full time in the mansion on the hill. The home found use in the Civil War as Fort Schenley, and was ultimately torn down by a later owner in 1955. Prior to demolition, the ballroom and foyer were moved to the University of Pittsburgh Cathedral of Learning. They are rumored to be haunted, and are a favorite attraction at that skyscraper in the Oakland neighborhood of Pittsburgh.
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Valentine Collection (per MOMA label verso); Michael L. Laughlin Estate, Aiken, South Carolina
original canvas and stretchers, highly textured canvas as made, tiny spots of retouch, crackle; frame with abrasions and cracking Note - Brunk Auctions makes every effort to offer accurate and thorough information, but encourages prospective bidders to inspect items in person whenever possible. Condition statements are provided as a courtesy for general guidance and should not be considered complete or definitive. They do not represent a warranty or assumption of liability by Brunk Auctions. Certain condition issues may not be specifically noted in the report but may be visible in the accompanying photographs, which are considered part of the overall condition report. Please refer to our Terms of Sale for complete information and contact us for additional photos or information as needed.