by Laurel | May 28th, 2010
Artist Edward Gay at work (Image in the public domain, courtesy the Smithsonian)
The Wheat Field was at auction in New York City the first week of March, 1904 at the Fifth Avenue Galleries near 35th street — four years before the donation in the article below. I looked for an image of this painting by Edward Gay (1837 – 1928) without much success, I assume it must be in a private collection. “The Wheat Harvest” and another painting, “Harvesting Wheat” (beware, this image is quite large) are probably representative of the style of “The Wheat Field” painting donated in the article below.
Does anyone remember this painting from the Library collection or know whether it was among those sent to auction?
May 28, 1908
The Library has received a fine oil painting by Edward Gay from an unknown giver, instructions being sent to a local art dealer to see that the painting was properly hung. The painting is entitled “The Wheat Field” and is a fine reproduction of a field of ripened grain. The library officials were greatly pleased with the gift and would be glad to send their thanks to the giver if they know whom to thank. This is the first painting to be hung on the walls of the library, and it is the start of an art collection which is hoped for the future.
From The Springfield Republican.
