19th-Century American Art Auction by Christie’s Features Benjamin Champney Painting

A leading figure in the history of American painting during the second half of the 19th century, Benjamin Champney is credited with founding the White Mountain School of painting, which developed in North Conway, New Hampshire and neighboring areas. As a result, he established one of the earliest colonies of artists in America. His style was based on the Hudson River School, which declined in popularity in the late 19th century. Many of Champney’s paintings were used in the making of chromolithographs, which were then sold to tourists who could not afford the originals. A notable piece of Benjamin Champney’s art is available with Christie’s in the upcoming 19th-Century American Art auction. The available oil on canvas piece is framed in wood and inscribed with ‘B Champney 1871.’ 

Another important item in the auction is a painting by the American artist and printmaker Thomas Moran. Despite his fame for paintings depicting the American West, Thomas Moran was captivated by Venice, which occupied more of his artistic attention in the later part of his long career. For Moran, Venice represented an endless source of artistic inspiration and a blissful memory for visitors. This oil on canvas work depicts a sunset Venetian scene by Moran. To view the full catalog and place a bid, visit Christie’s.