signed lower middle left; signed, titled and dated circa 1940 on the reverse and to a gallery label; inscribed “A favorite [sic] fishing spot on the Penetang Peninsula” on the reverse by the artist
Robert Burford Mason, “A Grand Eye for Glory: A Life of Franz Johnston,” Toronto, 1998, pages 13 and 40
Often painting “en plein air”, Franz Johnston was devoted to representing the Canadian landscape through his work. His treatment of the Canadian landscape in a decorative style set him apart from other Group of Seven members. In this idyllic autumnal scene, the fiery orange and red foliage are contrasted with the blues of the sky and calm water. In a review of Johnston’s first independent exhibition in 1920, the “Globe and Mail” remarked on this approach: “Keen dramatic sense, Mr. Johnston leans strongly to the decorative treatment of his subject.” Johnston’s romanticization of his subjects continued throughout his career, as seen in “October Lagoon, Penetang Peninsula”, dating to 1940. A 1942 exhibition review stated: “Franz has a grand eye for glory. He seldom paints anything because it’s grim or ugly.”
Frank Hans Johnston - October Lagoon, Penetang Peninsula | Cowley Abbott
