Three years ago, I acquired an old, ornate framed oil painting from an estate sale here in Phoenix, AZ. The painting is signed "Jack London." I have done much research on the writer over the past few years to learn if he produced any Art works. I did confirm that when the young Mr. London returned from his year spent in Alaska (seeking riches from the great gold rush), he did so with a collection of "sketches." Along with a photo of the oil painting itself(please advise me on how I can send more than one), I'm including a web link I found confirming that Mr. London did produce Art sketches (late 1800's/early 1900's). I will also include the web link I discovered directing you to one (there were several stories he'd written on the subject of sailing), of Mr. London's writings from 1911, titled "The Human Drift." If you read the story, you'll learn of Mr. London's vast knowledge of sailing, particularly in the type of boat which appears in the painting. The painting appears to be the work of an amateur(?) Mr. London's passion for sailing (mostly in the pacific), his vast knowledge and experience gained from working with Asian fishermen, as well as his his fearless nature to try any thing, seem quite relevant. Mr. London was also married to an artist, (Charmain Kittredge). Certainly all factors seem to play into the possibility that the painting may well have been produced by Mr. London, himself. The oil paint was applied heavily. It is crackly, old and brittle. There is a hole in the upper right portion of the painting, which looks as though an attempt was made to repair it(?) Mr. London died in 1916, so the painting itself would have been produced prior to then. Below, I've included a third and fourth link, showing examples of Mr. London's hand written signature. The frame is very old. Previous or post, 1916(?) Your time and assistance, as well as your professional opinion, would be highly regarded and greatly appreciated. Also, please advise me as to how I can send (e-mail), you more pictures I have of the painting, (in jpg. format). Below are some web links which may be of assistance to you. Thank you. Respectfully, Stacie C.
***Related Links:
http://thenostalgialeague.com/olmag/london-the-scarlet-plague.html (5th paragraph)
http://london.sonoma.edu/Writings/HumanDrift/
http://www.tomfolio.com/autographimg.asp?sigid=979&ret=AGIni
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Jack_London_Signature.svg
Re: Oil Painting on Canvas Signed Jack London
Based on the images and the label this is a fairly modern decorator piece, imported over here since the 1970's. These were made in multiples, the artist making as many copies as the wholesaler requested. You can safely put the Jack London connection to rest, the Author had no part in the painting of this piece.