Thomas Waterman Wood

The present work refers to another painting of the same theme by the artist, Fresh Eggs, from 1881.  When that work was shown at the Inter-States Exhibition in Chicago in the same year, it drew the attention of Daniel L. Wells, a successful Milwaukee businessman and art collector who commissioned Wood to paint another version of it for his collection.   He did not want an exact copy, so Wood made a few changes, among them altering the viewing angle and the stance of the young girl who, in this case, is facing us rather than facing away.  The young models are the same.  The boy's identity is unclear, as Wood does not mention his name in his diary.  The girl is Jennie Durkin, whom Wood had portrayed before and is easily identifiable from the distinctive bangs in her hair.

We thank Paul Worman for his assistance in the cataloguing of this lot.

Daniel L. Wells, Milwaukee (acquired directly from the artist)
Bradley King Criley, Los Angeles

Milwaukee, The Second International Exhibition of Art and Industry of the Milwaukee Industrial Exposition Association, 1882 (probably)
Los Angeles County Museum of Art, American Narrative Painting, October 1 - November 17, 1974

Canvas is not lined. Surface generally in good condition, with scattered dirt and soiling, a small area of loss at left edge center. Under ultraviolet light: an old green varnish, no apparent inpainting.
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.