The Legacy of Milton Avery: American Master of Color
Milton Avery (1885-1965) stands as one of America's most distinctive colorists, whose work bridges the gap between American Impressionism and Abstract Expressionism. His unique approach to form and color created a lasting impact on modern American art, influencing a generation of abstract painters, including Mark Rothko and Adolph Gottlieb.
"Contented Cow": A Rare Opportunity for Collectors
The "Contented Cow" gouache from 1932 represents Avery during a pivotal transitional period when he was developing his signature style. This authenticated work, signed by the artist's wife and independently appraised at $15,000, offers collectors a rare opportunity to own a piece from one of America's most respected modernists.
Avery's Journey: From Factory Worker to Celebrated Artist
Born into a working-class Connecticut family in 1885, Avery's path to artistic recognition was unconventional. After leaving school at 16, he spent a decade in various factory jobs before enrolling in a commercial lettering night class in 1905. When this class was canceled, he serendipitously took a life drawing class instead – beginning an artistic journey that would span five decades.
By 1919, Avery was winning awards in portrait and life drawing classes at the School of the Art Society of Hartford. His artistic direction changed dramatically after moving to New York in 1925, where he absorbed the modernist European influences exhibited in galleries throughout the city.
Artistic Development and Influence
The 1927 Matisse retrospective at the Valentine Gallery profoundly impacted Avery's work. By 1930, his paintings began to display the simplified forms, flattened space, and clear, unmodulated color that would become hallmarks of his mature style.
Though financially challenged throughout the 1930s, Avery's artistic reputation grew steadily. His New York apartment became a gathering place for younger artists including Mark Rothko, Adolph Gottlieb, and Barnett Newman – all of whom would later acknowledge Avery's profound influence on their work.
Investment Value: The Growing Market for Avery's Work
Despite being appreciated by fellow artists, Avery didn't achieve mainstream success until his 60s. His first full-scale retrospective museum exhibition opened at the Baltimore Museum of Art in 1952, finally bringing him national recognition.
Today, Avery's works continue to appreciate in value, with his paintings represented by prestigious galleries including Xavier Hufkens and Victoria Miro. Art historians increasingly recognize his crucial position bridging representational art and abstraction in American painting.
About This Work
"Contented Cow" exemplifies Avery's distinctive approach to subject matter. The painting features his characteristic simplified forms and bold use of color. At 19" x 25", beautifully framed in gold, this 1932 gouache painting captures Avery's ability to create poetic, harmonious compositions that transcend their humble subjects.
Why Collect Milton Avery Now
For serious collectors and investors, Milton Avery represents an increasingly rare opportunity: a major American artist whose work continues to be reassessed and whose market position continues to strengthen. His paintings offer both aesthetic pleasure and investment potential, with museums worldwide continuing to expand their Avery collections.
This piece, with its impeccable provenance and condition, represents an exceptional opportunity to acquire a significant work by an artist whose importance in American art history is firmly established.
Your purchase not only adds a significant piece to your collection but also makes a difference in the life of a Chicagoland child or family in need.