Two Havana Paintings

By yulianel, 9 April, 2025
Description

This are two watercolor paintings.

  • Both pieces are signed “Rey” and dated or associated with Havana (2008) (This is written at the back).
  • They draw directly from traditional Cuban architectural themes, and at least one is clearly inspired by Antonio RodrĂ­guez Morey’s "Colonial Patio" (1932). One painting is patio, the other is house facade.
  • The framing (AMS, Made in USA) suggests they were likely framed post-purchase, possibly in the U.S. after someone brought them back from a Havana trip or gallery.
  • Double-matted, frames in excellent condition, silver-one metal, quite modern.
  • Same size, one is landscape, the other one is portrait direction.
Category
Paintings
Medium
watercolor on paper?
Distinguishing marks
Signed Rey, did not manage to recognize the artist.
Condition
Excellent
Size and dimensions of this item
14.5" Ă— 11.4" with the frame, 7" Ă— 10" without frame
Date Period
2000s?
Price Paid (If known)
8 CAD for both.
For Sale?
Yes
Photos

Naida

1 month 3 weeks ago

Overview

  • Title/Subject: Colonial-style architecture (Courtyard & House Façade)
  • Medium: Watercolor on paper
  • Size:
    • Artwork: approx. 7" Ă— 10"
    • Framed: approx. 14.5" Ă— 11.4"
  • Signature: “Rey” (lower left on both works)
  • Date: Back of canvas marked “Havana – 08” (2008)
  • Condition: Excellent (artwork, matting, and modern silver metal frames)

Description & Analysis

These two works appear to be original watercolors done in a bright, illustrative style characteristic of tourist or local market art in Cuba. The scenes reflect classic colonial Cuban architecture, featuring red-tiled roofs, courtyards with clay vessels, arched doorways, and thick stucco walls—motifs often seen in paintings celebrating the romantic, historical charm of Havana.

Artistic Influence

You note a resemblance to Antonio Rodríguez Morey’s 1932 painting Colonial Patio, which suggests that the artist may have been working in a mode that draws from Cuban national romanticism. The work likely intends to appeal to visitors, and possibly educated buyers, interested in the legacy of Havana's colonial architecture.

Signature: “Rey”

  • The artist is currently unidentified in major art databases, suggesting they are a local or regional Cuban artistrather than an internationally recognized name.
  • This does not diminish the artistic or cultural value of the piece, especially as it may appeal to collectors of Cuban or Caribbean art.
  • These kinds of works are often studio-produced or independently painted for galleries or street sales in Havana’s old city or tourist zones.

Market & Value

You purchased both pieces for $8 CAD total, which is consistent with pricing for unsigned or lesser-known artworks acquired directly in Cuba or via secondary markets (e.g., thrift stores or estate sales).

Current Fair Market Value (Retail/Decorative)

Context

Estimated Value (USD)

Local retail/gallery resale

$50 – $100 (each)

Online platforms (eBay/Etsy)

$40 – $75 (each)

Framing value alone

$30 – $50 (each)

Estimated combined value: $100 – $175 USD (for both framed)

These works have solid decorative value, especially for buyers interested in:

  • Cuban art
  • Colonial/architectural subjects
  • Watercolor collectors
  • Framed, ready-to-display originals under $100 each

Recommendation

While not attributed to a well-documented artist, the works are:

  • Original, not prints
  • Well-executed in composition and technique
  • Professionally framed
  • And carry cultural and decorative appeal

No professional appraisal is necessary for insurance or auction unless additional provenance surfaces or the artist “Rey” can be linked to a larger body of collectible work.

If selling, consider listing on:

  • Etsy (Caribbean art category)
  • eBay (original watercolor, Cuba theme)
  • Chairish or local decor consignment shops
Average: 5 (1 vote)