Marshland painting by Matson

Overview

This is a framed oil (or possibly acrylic) painting on board, measuring approximately 15" x 15" including the frame and 13.5" x 13.5" unframed. The artwork features a colorful marshland scene with vivid fall-like trees, a reflective body of water, and two birds in flight against a dramatic sky. It is signed “Matson” in the lower left corner.

Attribution

The signature matches known works by Richard Matson, a mid-20th-century American painter recognized for stylized landscapes, seascapes, and vibrant color palettes. While definitive attribution requires provenance or expert verification, the stylistic elements—particularly the brushwork, bold color fields, and scenic composition—are consistent with Matson’s work.

Richard Matson’s paintings were widely reproduced and sold in the U.S. through galleries, department stores, and furniture showrooms from the 1960s–1980s, often marketed as decorative art. His work is collectible today, particularly among fans of mid-century American art.

Medium

The medium appears to be oil paint on board, evidenced by the visible brush texture and slight gloss seen in close-up shots. The painting's surface also shows impasto-style application in areas like the tree foliage, consistent with oil or thick-bodied acrylic.

Condition

• Front: Good vintage condition overall. Strong color retention, no obvious cracking or large paint loss.
• Note: There is a notable blemish near the center of the painting—likely caused by contact with a textured surface (like fabric) before the paint dried. This creates a visual disturbance that may affect collector interest slightly.
• Frame: Original, wood frame with minor age wear—consistent with vintage framing from the 1960s–1970s.
• Back: Shows signs of age and use. Paint residue on the back of the board suggests it may have been part of an outdoor (plein air) painting session.

Market Value Estimate

Paintings by artists like Richard Matson are modestly collectible, especially when in good condition and of a desirable subject matter.

Current Market Range:

• Retail/Gallery Price: $100–$250 CAD
• Private Sale/Online Marketplaces (e.g., eBay, Etsy): $60–$150 CAD
• With restoration or verification of artist’s identity: Up to $300 CAD

You paid 10 CAD, which represents excellent value.

Recommendations

• No professional appraisal is required unless planning to resell through a formal gallery or auction.
• If desired, a local art conservator can touch up the central blemish, which could improve appeal for resale.
• For further verification, compare the signature and painting style with confirmed works by Richard Matson on online art databases, auction archives (e.g., LiveAuctioneers, Invaluable), or through a service like AskART.