WALTER INGLIS ANDERSON ORIGINAL PEN & INK DRAWING “PALMETTOS” C. 1960–1965 WITH 1989 PROVENANCE

Item #1679

Original pen-and-ink drawing attributed to Walter Inglis Anderson, titled “Palmettos,” circa 1960–1965, on thin typing paper. The sheet measures approximately 8¼ x 10¾ inches sight, presented vertically in a mat measuring approximately 14 x 17¾ inches. The composition shows radiating palmetto fronds, abstracted botanical forms, and loose wave-like notational marks, all rendered in Anderson’s spare, rhythmic line.

Accompanied by 1989 correspondence and a sales note from Paul R. Edelstein / Edelstein-Dattel Art Investments, Memphis, Tennessee, describing the work as “Walter Anderson pen and ink entitled ‘Palmettos,’ 8½ x 11” on typing paper, circa 1960–1965.” The note records a sales price of $1,200, reduced to $925 as part of a transaction involving Norman Rockwell prints. Also included is a 1989 typed letter from Edelstein enclosing information on Walter Anderson and noting an effort to locate an extra copy of Walter Anderson Logs.

Also included is the 16-page exhibition/publication booklet An American Master: Walter Anderson of Mississippi, published in 1988 by the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art. The booklet provides useful contemporary context for Anderson’s work and appears to have been part of the material sent with or retained alongside the drawing.

The drawing is matted under a window mat. The paper is toned and slightly wrinkled, with visible handling creases and minor edge irregularities within the mat opening. A small circular mark or stamp appears near the lower-right corner of the image area. The work has not been removed from the mat for inspection.

A desirable small-format Anderson drawing with period sales documentation, accompanying Anderson material, and a direct subject connection to the Gulf Coast natural forms central to his work.

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