Lawren Stewart Harris 1885 - 1970

Private Collection, Rochester, New York

This painting is in excellent condition with no apparent issues under UV. There are specks of surface dirt in the upper and lower right corners.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Although this outstanding study of trees is not dated, it was most likely done in 1914 when Lismer, Varley, Thomson and Harris were together in Algonquin Park.

Throughout history, forests and trees have been places of refuge and retreats from the world where one goes to renew one's self.  There is also a sense of steadfastness that comes from tall trees that will stand the storms that circle around them. 

Harris has used a screen of two different kinds of trees silhouetted against the sky leading into the forest glade beyond.  They are well-defined and simplified with their foliage painted in with one broad brushtroke.  The chalky white bark of the birch tree contrasts with the sombre green and dark trunk of the spruces.  He also outlines the trunks of the spruce trees with a reddish brown colour so they resonate or vibrate.  When we notice the purple colour of the spruce trunks, there is a feeling that Thomson's tree paintings were observed by Harris as it was an unusual colour, not normally seen in a landscape painting.

Even today this work, with its flat design and the strong mustard colour of the birch tree foliage, looks contemporary. It borders on a composition suspended between reality and an abstraction thereof.