Thomas Mower Martin (1838–1934) | “Overturned Tree Root” | Naturalistic Oil on Panel | Ex-Gallery Provenance | Circa 1890–1910
Description
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Historical Context & Origin
Region: Canada (Ontario)
Material: Oil on panel
Period: Late 19th to early 20th century
Artist: Attributed to Thomas Mower Martin (1838–1934)
Description
This oil on panel painting, titled "Overturned Tree Root", is an intimate study of the natural world, showcasing Thomas Mower Martin’s mastery of texture, light, and form. The composition captures the raw beauty of a twisted tree root, its organic contours highlighted by the interplay of shadow and earthy tones. Though unsigned, the verso label attributes the work to Martin, and it was once part of the Robert McLaughlin Gallery collection in Oshawa, Ontario, before being deaccessioned to support collections management.
Features
- Oil on panel with rich naturalistic detail
- Focused composition emphasizing root textures and light-play
- Earth-toned palette reflecting Martin’s hallmark naturalism
- Verso label attribution; ex-collection Robert McLaughlin Gallery
Cultural Significance
Thomas Mower Martin, often called the “father of Canadian art,” was a founding member of the Ontario Society of Artists (1872) and instrumental in establishing the Royal Canadian Academy of Arts (1880). His works, rooted in both European training and Canadian experience, reflect a deep appreciation for the natural environment. "Overturned Tree Root" represents not only his artistic skill but also the Canadian cultural movement of the 19th century, where wilderness landscapes became central to national identity and artistic expression.
Condition
Good condition with strong brushwork and preserved textural detail. Minor, age-appropriate wear consistent with its panel medium and historical age.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height: 7 in
Width: 10 in
Age (Approximate)
100–140 years old
Provenance
Bearing an original collection label from The Robert McLaughlin Gallery, Oshawa, Ontario, identifying the artist as Thomas Mower Martin, the title as Overturned Tree Roots, and the work as dating to circa 1900. Founded in 1967, the Robert McLaughlin Gallery is Durham Region’s largest public art gallery and maintains an important collection of historical, modern, and contemporary Canadian art.
The painting was subsequently offered by Waddington’s Auctioneers, Toronto, in its Discovery Art auction of April 18, 2024, as Lot 46. Following the auction, it entered a private collection in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Learn More
Study the life and artistic contributions of Thomas Mower Martin in the development of Canadian art
Browse our Collection of Fine Art Paintings
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: Canada (Ontario)
Material: Oil on panel
Period: Late 19th to early 20th century
Artist: Attributed to Thomas Mower Martin (1838–1934)
Description
This oil on panel painting, titled "Overturned Tree Root", is an intimate study of the natural world, showcasing Thomas Mower Martin’s mastery of texture, light, and form. The composition captures the raw beauty of a twisted tree root, its organic contours highlighted by the interplay of shadow and earthy tones. Though unsigned, the verso label attributes the work to Martin, and it was once part of the Robert McLaughlin Gallery collection in Oshawa, Ontario, before being deaccessioned to support collections management.
Features
- Oil on panel with rich naturalistic detail
- Focused composition emphasizing root textures and light-play
- Earth-toned palette reflecting Martin’s hallmark naturalism
- Verso label attribution; ex-collection Robert McLaughlin Gallery
Cultural Significance
Thomas Mower Martin, often called the “father of Canadian art,” was a founding member of the Ontario Society of Artists (1872) and instrumental in establishing the Royal Canadian Academy of Arts (1880). His works, rooted in both European training and Canadian experience, reflect a deep appreciation for the natural environment. "Overturned Tree Root" represents not only his artistic skill but also the Canadian cultural movement of the 19th century, where wilderness landscapes became central to national identity and artistic expression.
Condition
Good condition with strong brushwork and preserved textural detail. Minor, age-appropriate wear consistent with its panel medium and historical age.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height: 7 in
Width: 10 in
Age (Approximate)
100–140 years old
Provenance
Bearing an original collection label from The Robert McLaughlin Gallery, Oshawa, Ontario, identifying the artist as Thomas Mower Martin, the title as Overturned Tree Roots, and the work as dating to circa 1900. Founded in 1967, the Robert McLaughlin Gallery is Durham Region’s largest public art gallery and maintains an important collection of historical, modern, and contemporary Canadian art.
The painting was subsequently offered by Waddington’s Auctioneers, Toronto, in its Discovery Art auction of April 18, 2024, as Lot 46. Following the auction, it entered a private collection in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Learn More
Study the life and artistic contributions of Thomas Mower Martin in the development of Canadian art
Browse our Collection of Fine Art Paintings
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