Paris Street Scene

Overview

• Title (descriptive): Paris Street Scene
• Medium: Oil on canvas
• Size: 40" x 50" (excluding frame)
• Frame: Heavy, ornate carved wood frame (likely vintage or reproduction)
• Signature: Lower right corner — appears to read “E. Henry”
• Condition: Excellent / Mint
• Origin: Acquired at a yard sale; history unknown

Artist Identification: "E. Henry"

• The signature appears to be "E. Henry," which is a relatively common pseudonym used on mid-20th-century decorative oils — often Parisian street scenes.
• Many of these were mass-produced in European or American studios from the 1950s–1970s and sold in furniture stores or via decorators.
• These works are typically not by a known listed fine artist, but by skilled studio painters who created art for decorative markets.

Artistic Style

• Impasto technique with palette knife visible (thick paint application)
• Subject matter — romanticized Parisian architecture and figures — was very popular in mid-century home décor.
• Similar works were often imported from Europe (especially Italy and France) and signed with pseudonyms to imply a Continental origin.

Estimated Market Value (2025)

• Retail (decorator gallery or vintage resale): $300–$600 (framed)
• Online resale (eBay, Chairish, Etsy): $150–$400 depending on location and condition
• Yard sale / estate sale: $100–$250
• Auction (non-fine art, decorative category): $75–$200

Your purchase price of $120 appears to be quite fair for a decorative painting of this size and condition.

Framing Note

• The ornate frame alone could be worth $100–$200 by itself if hand-carved or vintage.
• Its size and appearance make it attractive for home staging, upscale resale, or vintage interior design.

Professional Appraisal?

• A formal appraisal is not necessary unless:
  • You plan to insure the piece as part of a high-value estate
  • You suspect the artist might be misattributed and wish to verify authenticity
• You may wish to have it cleaned or varnished by a conservator if the paint shows signs of age dulling

Recommendation

• Market the painting for sale as:

  "Large Vintage Framed Paris Street Scene Oil Painting, Signed 'E. Henry' – 40x50, Heavy Ornate Frame, Excellent Condition"

This appeals to home decorators, designers, and vintage enthusiasts.