This oil painting is attributed to Tyler, however, it is unsigned, which is not unusual for this painter. The strength and technique of this picture clearly indicates the work of this painter, whose work is highly desirable. The frame is original and-with its carved spiraling presentation of acanthus leafage and beading all covered in a soft gold patina-is absolutely fabulous. The condition is excellent, and it is unlined.
James Gale Tyler, (1855-1931)
James G. Tyler was one of the most notable maritime
painters and illustrators of his day. His popularity
can be gauged by the fact that his works were often
forged. It is estimated that in New York City in 1918,
more than 100 works falsely carried the artist’s name.
Tyler was born in 1855 in Oswego, New
York. At age 15, Tyler, already fascinated by the
sea and its vessels, moved to New York, where he studied
under marine artist A. Cary Smith. This brief tutelage
was the only formal art training Tyler ever received.
No aspect of maritime life escaped Tyler’s
attention. In addition to painting all types of boats—from
old sloops to clipper ships—he painted a variety
of seamen, coastal scenes and seascapes.
From 1900 to 1930, Tyler traveled each
year to Newport, Rhode Island, where he painted the
annual America’s Cup Race. Some of these paintings
were commissioned; the remainder were widely exhibited
and critically acclaimed.
In fact, Tyler received a number of
important commissions in his lifetime. He also capitalized
on the money to be made through magazines, and was
a regular contributing writer and illustrator for
some of the major publications of the time, including
Harper’s, Century and Literary Digest.
Tyler’s artistic style is vivid and
poetic, infused with his unique and specific enthusiasm.
As seen in his Freshening Breeze (date unknown, Kennedy
Galleries), his emphasis is more on mood and impression
than on the exacting details conveyed by more realistic
painters. His works have been critically compared
with those of Albert Ryder.
When, at the height of his career, Tyler
became aware of the number of paintings falsely circulated
under his name in New York, he complained to the district
attorney and was able to successfully pursue several
civil action suits.
Having lived for most of his life in
Greenwich, Connecticut, Tyler moved to Pelham, New
York in 1931, before he died.
MEMBERSHIPS
Artists Fund Society
Salmagundi Club
PUBLIC COLLECTIONS
New York Historical Society, New York City
Art: 22″ x
17″
Frame: 39″ x 28 1/2″