Acquired directly from the artist (1964)
By descent to the current Private Collection, Ontario
Winter scenes were particularly coveted by Maud Lewis collectors during her lifetime. “Winter Sleigh Ride” captures a sunny day with vibrant summery green hills in the background, which contrast with the snow-covered landscape in the foreground. The inconsistencies of Maud Lewis’ work were undoubtedly intentional. She painted winter scenes with off-season foliage and colours because it pleased her. The artist was also unconventional when it came to light and shadows. Occasionally, Maud’s pictures would contain no shadows. In other paintings some objects would cast shadows while others would not. In “Winter Sleighride” we see this hallmark of Lewis’ style. The evergreen tree and hills to the left side of the picture cast a pale blue shadow, while the sleigh and evergreen to the right do not. These inconsistencies were frequent and a mark of Maud Lewis’ humour.
