Vintage Framed James Swann Chinese-Style “Spider Mums” Watercolor on Rice Paper

As shown. See all photos. Attributed to James Swann; unsigned. Belonged to my maternal grandparents, who shared an affinity for Asian art. My grandfather paid $25(!) back in the day. It’s possible my family knew artist personally. Overall good condition; gentle buckling, minor abrasions and resulting minor losses. Nice wood frame with lovely gold trim paint detailing.

22” x 16” x .5”

“James Swann (1905–1985) was one of the Midwest's most respected printmakers. From 1931 until the mid-1960s he produced more than 250 works in a variety of media, including etchings, aquatints, drypoints and lithographs. He was also a newspaper illustrator, and he created countless drawings. After moving to Chicago in 1936, he became a protégé and close friend of Bertha Jaques, one of the founders of the Chicago Society of Etchers. Swann's subject matter ranged from picturesque views of trees and farms to energetic vistas of downtown Chicago. He also created numerous images of his extensive travels.”