The Calf Auction

1924

Clare Leighton

Associated Names
Clare Leighton

Artist, American, born England, 1898 - 1989

This is a drawing of a group of people gathered in an auction setting. The individuals are standing closely together under an overhead structure, focusing on a central figure who appears to be reading from a book or document. The drawing shows strong contrasts between light and shadow, emphasizing the various headwear and coats worn by the men. In the foreground, there is a detailed depiction of a calf in a wooden pen, indicating a potential livestock sale. The composition leads the viewer's eye around the drawing, conveying a sense of focus on the ongoing sale event.
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Artwork overview

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Acquired by NGA in 2012, gift of Christopher and Beverly With

Associated Names

Bibliography

1977

  • Fletcher, William D. Clare Leighton, An Exhibition: American Sheaves, English Seed Corn. Massachusetts: Boston Public Library, 1977, p. 7, no. 7.

1992

  • Jaffé, Pat. The Wood Engravings of Clare Leighton. Cambridge, England: Silent Books, 1992, no. 5.

Inscriptions

lower left in graphite: 50/100 The Calf Auction; lower right in graphite: Clare Leighton

Wikidata ID

Q76561176

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