Carlo of Hollywood large oil on canvas of Taj Mahal
I have a large 41"x57" oil on canvas painting in a very plain wood frame. The oil is very deep and thick. The signature matches what I have seen of Carlo of Hollywood and style matches as well. I know that Carlo hired professional painters to copy his work and they all signed his name, but they all signed it differently so he could tell who painted it. One of my concerns to to find out if this is his signature or one of his hired painters. The painting appears mid century as the wood is old. I could find no additional markings on the piece. There is damage to the center of the painting that is not visible from the front as the oil is very thick.
41"x57"
Online Auction
Yes
Hello Patrick,
Thank you very much for submitting your painting for an online appraisal and for your patience!
The presented object appears to be an oil on canvas painting depicting the Basilica San Marco in Venice, Italy -- not the Taj Mahal -- in a burnt yellow palette and thick impasto style. It measures 41 x 57 inches, is framed and looks to be in good condition. The composition is signed "Carlo" at the bottom right, which could suggest an attribution to Carlo of Hollywood (American, 20th Century).
Works from this artist have been seen at small regional auctions in recent years, though the demand does not seem to be particularly high:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/121907544_carlo-of-hollywood-painting-on-board
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/136442467_mid-century-abstract-landscape-oc
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/82432671_carlo-of-hollywood-abstract-equestrian-signed
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/82432672_carlo-of-hollywood-abstract-cityscape-signed
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/81724543_carlo-hollywood-cityscape-oil-on-canvas
As far as I can tell, there doesn't seem to be any recognized way of determining whether the signature is his own or from one of his hired painters, nor do I expect that it would have a big impact on value. More in-depth authentication research would not be justified by the potential fair market value of the piece, which I would estimate at $200 to 300, though retail and asking prices may vary.
If you have any questions about my valuation, please let me know in the comments section below. Thank you and have a great day!
Kind regards,
Anne
