This is about the loveliest little watercolor of the sea that I think I’ve ever seen! No wonder Vera, its maker, submitted it to a competition, as noted on the back of the gray backing card to which it is mounted. Very skillfully done, luminous, and completely transportive—this is really, really a little gem of a painting. I purchased it from a British dealer and believe the seascape depicted is the English coast, and that the painting dates to the early 20th century.  

Photos don’t convey the sense of aged warmth of the grey board to which the watercolor is mounted, upon which the title -“The Open Road” (The Ship’s Highway)—is hand-written; I think it actually adds to the charm of the painting—so myself might frame it with the board exposed, but it would be great either way. It’s all in very good condition, with just a bit of foxing in the sky of the painting. 4 3/4” x 6 3/4” ; board 8 x 10 3/8”