Maynard Dixon (1875-1946) No Sabe’ said California John, 1908
Grisaille Gouache on Board Board: 15” x 21.75” Frame: 20” x 26”
Signed Lower Left: Maynard Dixon / 08 Verso: “No Sabe” said California John
“I don’t know,” he scratches his head, halting his men and contemplating his next step. This Maynard Dixon is a grisaille gouache, painted in monochrome, and intensely shaded and modeled to create the illusion of sculpture. In this piece, shadows deepen details in the subjects’ clothing and facial features and texturize the surrounding landscape. Illustration for 'The Road Agent: An Episode of the Babes, the Lost Dog, and Pay Dirt' by Stewart Edward White.
Provenance: Commissioned by Colliers Magazine and Stewart Edward White for the September 26, 1908 printing of Colliers Magazine. Private Collection, Cleveland Ohio Private Collection, Orem, Utah
