Oscar Lewis Fest (1852-1920) - The Vagabond Players in Winter - 19th Century Oil on Board P3057

This is really spectacular, one of the best 19th century genre paintings we've ever had in our possession. Superb in its comic pathos. A touch of the primitive in the artist's technique only adds to its charm and conviction.

Art measures 16" x 28". frame is 19" x 30 3/4".

Born in Germany on August 10, 1852, Oscar Fest was brought to the U.S. at age one. By 1876 he was a working artist in San Francisco, especially as a scene painter for the thriving theaters the burgeoning city supported. In 1884 he traveled to Fresno to paint scenes in Grady's Opera House. He died in San Francisco on March 4, 1920. Exh: Mechanics' Inst. (SF), 1881.

Source: Edan Hughes, "Artists in California, 1786-1940"
City Directory; Art and Artists of 19th Century Fresno (Ralph J. Gorny); Death record.