Two Havana Paintings

Overview

• Title/Subject: Colonial-style architecture (Courtyard & House Façade)
• Medium: Watercolor on paper
• Size:
  • Artwork: approx. 7" × 10"
  • Framed: approx. 14.5" × 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