Dixie Hampson Durham (Virginia/Arkansas, 1913-2010) oil on canvas painting depicting a young African American child asleep in a bed with white linens, a fork protruding from under her pillow. Signed and dated "Dixie Durham 1977" lower right. Black paint inscription reading "A FORK/UNDER THE/PILLOW/TO CURE NIGHT/SWEATS" en verso of canvas, New Orleans Auction Galleries lot tag, dated February 26, 2019, en verso of frame. Housed in a molded wood frame with pierced decorations and a wooden fillet. Sight: 23 1/2" H x 19 1/2" W. Framed: 31 1/4" H x 27 1/4" W. Biography: Dixie Durham is known for her paintings depicting Southern scenes. She received her first formal art training at James Lee Art Academy (now the Memphis Art Academy) in Memphis and later studied with Jerry Farnsworth at the Ringling School of Art in Sarasota, Florida. She also attended the Memphis Academy of Art and studied with Paul Penczner in Memphis.
The estate of Dr. Thomas Bechtel, Memphis, Tennessee.
Condition
Overall very good condition with light craquelure. Frame with areas of loss, largest 1 3/4", scattered dampstaining to fillet.