Pickard China (American, Est. 1893)
Curtis H Marker (American fl. 1908-1930)
‘Florida Moonlight’, Vellum Vase c. 1912-1918
hand-painted, gilt, porcelain
9” high x 4” diameter
Notes: Marker produced premium-quality work and his Moonlight scenes were considered one of his specialties, described by Reed as “spectacular” he mastered Vellum after returning to Pickard in 1911 after co-founding International Art Studios. Formally introduced to the public in 1912 ‘Vellum’ is applied in delicate pastel colors with matte-finish paints resulting in a soft velvety finish that amplifies the mood of the scene, it was discontinued in 1919.
Markings: 1912-1918 Pickard China gold leaf mark; National Association of Dealers in Antiques gold foil backstamp, “A New Day / Antiquity with Integrity”.
Condition: Antique, Very Good
For Accuracy: an antique item it may show expected light signs of age. There is some light rubbing to the gilt rim and a slight rub in the tree. The painting is very fine with much detail and colour.
Biography: Curtis H Marker (American, 1882). Born in Ohio of Ohio-born parents in 1882. Marker lived with artist Howard Reury upon his arrival at Pickard in 1908. After just two years he joined with Gibson and Keates to form the International Art Studios then returning to Pickard in 1911 he worked as a decorator until the late 1920’s. From the very beginning, he produced premium-quality work. His Calla Lily was painted when he was only 26 and displays superb talent in color and design. In the realm of scenic vellums his Italian Garden, Yosemite Falls, Wildwood, and Hawthorne placed him in the same league as Challinor. Dark, moonlit scenic were one of his specialties. His representations of fruits and flowers were nowhere better displayed than in his Deserted Garden and Roseland Designs. Co-founder of the International Art Studios, c. 1910-1911. Master painter at Pickard China c. 1908- 1930.
Reference: Pickard China. Alan B Reed. 1995
