Rare Russell

Some of you might like the art of Russell Patterson and I guess that many of you already have the book published by Fantagraphics.
However, here are some odd pieces that was recently sold but escaped me 'cause I've been lazy when it comes to watching auctions lately. (The pic above, dated October, 1940 was also sold a few days ago.)

First out is a painting from late in his career. You can see that it's the same artist. the same bold strokes as in his early works but the fine touch has been lost. (Check earlier posts for more Patterson including another late painting.)





Then we have some beautiful pieces that went for pocket change. Wish I had been more alert...
First the sellers description then the watercolors:
"Patterson and Charles Biro had a long friendship as demonstrated by this lot of New Year's greatings spanning more than two decades. Included in this lot are four pencil and watercolor images each produced on 8.5" x 11" stationary. Two are dated, 1949 and 1972, and the other two appear to fall somewhere in between those dates. The image of the woman with large white wings and the small Santa hat is executed on a piece of Patterson's stationary bearing the date "1952", so it must date from around or after that time. Stylistically, it is much closer to the image dated 1949 than the 1972 example. All four are inscribed and signed by Patterson to Biro and his family. Also included in this lot is a charming letter from Patterson to Biro dated March 2, 1952 expressing his appreciation of Biro's friendship and a photograph of Biro and Patterson (2nd from the left, Biro in middle) in a recording studio, probably taken in the early 1960s. This material comes directly from the estate of Charles Biro."



Then we have a nice one titled "Her hangout". Probably from the 30's.



/Joakim.

PS. Anyone with access to the San Francisco Chronicle Sunday Magazine Section from ca. 1932. They ran his "The Countess and the Cowboy" and "Carolyns Cadet" around that time. Full pages in color from his peak. Would love to see those!
I just have a few small, small photos. Like the one below. But it sure makes me want to see more!