Here we have a wicked cool abstract painting of a skeletal figure by renowned artist Bernard Gussow (1881 - 1957). The artwork appears is a mixed media piece on board. I can’t get past the highly stylized, abstracted contorted figure. The figure has skeletal features, particularly in the head. The style is fresh, raw and expressive, fitting within the broader scope of Gussow's modernist and sometimes socially conscious work. The use of bold outlines and geometric shapes (like the triangles) points towards modernist influences. That’s a long way of saying a smoking work of art.
Here’s some info about this important artist:
Bernard Gussow was a Russian-American artist born in Russia in 1881. He immigrated to the United States in 1893, settling in New York City. He studied art at the Art Students League and the National Academy of Design.Gussow was associated with the modernist movement in American art. His work often reflects influences from European modernism, including Cubism and Expressionism, but adapted into his own distinct style. He frequently depicted urban scenes, figures, and still lifes. He was known for his expressive brushwork and often explored social themes.He exhibited his work widely, including at the influential Armory Show of 1913, which introduced European avant-garde art to American audiences. He also exhibited at institutions like the Whitney Museum of American Art and the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. Like many artists during the Great Depression, Gussow participated in the Works Progress Administration (WPA) Federal Art Project, creating public art.
On the reverse you have a provenance stamp. Here’s a breakdown.
Rabin & Krueger Gallery: This indicates the artwork was sold or handled by the Rabin & Krueger Gallery. This was a known gallery, particularly active in Newark, New Jersey. They often dealt in American art, including works by artists involved in the WPA Federal Art Project and associated with American Modernism.
Estate of Nathan Krueger: This tells us the artwork subsequently came from the estate of Nathan Krueger. Nathan Krueger was one of the principals of the Rabin & Krueger Gallery. This stamp was likely applied when his estate was being settled or inventoried, indicating the artwork was part of his personal collection or gallery inventory at the time of his death.
Date Range (Circa 1934-1974): This broad date range most likely refers to the period the Rabin & Krueger Gallery was significantly active or the period associated with Nathan Krueger's collection/gallery activities, rather than the specific date the artwork was created by Gussow. Gussow created art both before and during this period. The style of the piece suggests it could date from the 1930s to the 1950s, well within this timeframe.
The artwork measures 9” tall by 7” wide. It is in good shape given its age. There is light surface patina throughout the artwork. Please see all pics as they are part of the description.
I ship FedEx to street addresses in the continental USA only (no PO Boxes). Free shipping on the abstract artwork.
