Hi-I just picked up an oil on canvas from the salvation army thrift store. It is signed but I cannot make out the signature. It is in what I would call a gallery frame and there is a sticker on the frame that reads"Mayfair Gallery and Art Center, 274 Saratoga Rd. Scotia,NY Phone Sch'Dy EX 9-3306". I checked and the place is no longer in business and to make things weirder the thrift store is where this gallery used to be(same address). It is a pretty wild impressionist work I think. I will attach pics. Thanks in advance for any help.

Scott

Thanks for providing some information and the images! I haven't found anything yet, but will still keep searching.

A couple of days ago, I did try formatting the close-up that you have provided of the signature a number of ways in order to maybe make the letters easier to make out. Wasn't really all that successful.

Is there not a title anywhere on the painting or the frame?

My initial impression of the painting is that it is of a covered bridge in a wooded setting. I could be totally incorrect though. It's just my initial impression...

Thanks for responding. I think you are right about the subject matter in the painting. Is it possible(longshot) that the signature reads "A or N or M Held"? I have been trying to figure out what type of genre it is and I think it would fall into the "Color Field movement" from the late 50's and 60's. Any further help would be appreciated. There is no title.

Scott

Since you are in NY try taking it into different galleries. I have bought some pieces and the places around here have always helped me to identify the artist and given me a ball park figure of their worth. Btw it is a beautiful piece.

Thanks for the info. I will try taking it to galleries and see if they can help.