(New Mexico/California/Russian, 1881-1955)

Baby Eya, the artist's daughter, circa 1923, signed lower right "N. Fechin" (in Cyrillic), oil on canvas, 13 x 16 in.; modern gilt wood frame by Lowy

Notes: This lot is accompanied by a letter from Eya Fechin Branham, dated May 26, 1992, on The Fechin Institute letterhead, and addressed to Stuart Johnson, stating, " I have examined as best I could the transparency of "Baby Eya". It is difficult to thoroughly authenticate without seeing the painting itself, but from the photograph it is obviously a painting of me done in Russia. The background where the child is sitting is in the living room we had. Also, please note that in the lower left corner there is a part of his signature in Russian Cyrillic and unfortunately covered by the frame. I trust this is of some service to you. In other words the painting was done before 1923 when we left for America and I appear to be about four or five years old. Thank you for your care in authenticating my father's work. There have been so many copies and forgeries that I'm particularly appreciative of your thoughtfulness. We will hope to see you visit us here someday.

With best wishes sincerely yours,

Eya Fechin Branham"

This lot is also accompanied by copies of documents related to the painting and frame.