Justin McCarthy (1891-1977) double mixed media on wove paper mounted on card file folder, undated circa 1930-1970, portraying on one side a woman wearing a collegiate sweater and shooting a rifle surrounded by a lemon yellow ground, and on the other side, a woman wearing skis in a wintery landscape. To the left of the woman with a rifle is fragments of text: "Fair Co Eds Take Up Shooting" and "Miss...Brown." Both are signed "J McCarthy" in the lower corner.
Born in Hazleton, PA, Justin McCarthy painted and drew people from pop culture whose images he sourced in newspapers and magazines, biblical and historical events, and landscapes and still lifes. He began painting while at the Rittersville State Home for the Insane following a nervous breakdown after failing his final exams to complete a law degree at UPenn. He supported himself by selling vegetables he grew and doing odd jobs. His work is included in the Smithsonian Institution, Akron Art Museum, American Folk Art Museum, and others, including The Keen Collection of Outsider Art of Bethany Mission, where you can read more about his life.
These are from The Strauser Collection of Works by Justin McCarthy, and the folder is stamped as such and signed "S. Strauser." In 1960, Dorothy and Sterling Strauser (important collectors and supporters of folk art) discovered Justin McCarthy’s work at an outdoor show and began collecting and including his work in important exhibitions they organized.
Condition: Good overall with some discoloration consistent with age. The woman on skis has a bite out of the lower edge, which was likely its original condition, given that the artist's signature is written over a missing section at the corner.
Each drawing is 9" x 12" Including the file folder when opened up 19.25" x 12.25"
Please note: Antique and early vintage items have imperfections and wear throughout, as would be expected with their age and use. We provide, as accurately as possible, images that reflect the character of the piece. Actual color may vary from images. Please ask questions in advance of ordering. All sales are final.
