Description:

Rain Webb (American/Louisiana, 20th c.), "Study for Neighborhood Archeology Mural", 1987/1993, acrylic on canvas, signed and dated lower left, signed, dated and heavily inscribed en verso, handwritten inscription attached en verso, 28 in. x 28 in., framed, overall 30 5/8 in. x 30 5/8 in. x 1 3/4 in. Note: Rain Webb is known for his mesmerizing paintings which can be seen around New Orleans at locations such as Jacques-Imo’s and, more recently, Boil Seafood House. His artwork has been an integral part of the cultural aesthetic of the city for decades, with perhaps none more recognizable than his landmark mural “Neighborhood Archeology” that formerly graced the side of the Apple Barrel bar on Frenchmen Street. According to Gambit’s Blake Pontchartrain: “Webb asked Philipe Benet, who owned the property in the 1980s, if he could paint a mural on the side of the building to pay tribute to the history and culture of New Orleans.” The lot on offer here is a study for that painting. Centered is a gray-haired academic, green parrot perched on his shoulder, who is studying an artifact while sitting within an excavation site that features the Mississippi riverbend. In the background, the horizon line is adorned with buildings found on Frenchmen Street. This smaller-scale version is the last remaining vestige of the beloved image, as it was eventually painted over following Hurricane Katrina, making it a veritable artifact of New Orleans history. Ref.: “Blake Pontchartrain.” Gambit. July 8, 2014: 13

  • Condition: If Condition is NOT stated in the description of the lot, the absence of a condition report does not indicate the lot is free of damage or condition issues. Available Condition Reports will appear as an additional image. Condition Reports and photographs may be requested on items until the Wednesday prior to the auction. Bid accordingly. All sales are final, no returns are accepted on the basis of condition.

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February 3, 2023 11:00 AM CST
New Orleans, LA, US

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $99 $10
$100 $499 $25
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $2,999 $100
$3,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $29,999 $1,000
$30,000 $49,999 $5,000
$50,000 $99,999 $10,000
$100,000 + $20,000