Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a limited-edition offset lithographic print of a serene coastal scene, hand-signed and numbered 149/440 by the artist Richard Ayres. The piece showcases a masterful play of light on water, captured in soft, impressionistic brushstrokes that evoke the peaceful atmosphere of a coastal morning. It features a double-mat design in dusty rose and cream, housed in a classic wooden frame.
Story
Created in 1990, this print captures the timeless allure of the American coastline. The artist used a delicate palette to freeze a fleeting moment of light reflecting on water. It represents a period when high-quality limited editions brought gallery-level coastal art directly into seaside homes.
Maker / Origin
Richard Ayres is a recognized American artist known for his atmospheric coastal landscapes, maritime scenes, and tranquil waterscapes. His work frequently focuses on the subtle interplay of light, shadow, and reflection along the Eastern and Western seaboards. By releasing hand-signed, limited-edition runs, Ayres allowed collectors to share in his quiet, contemplative view of the natural world.
Condition & Value
The print appears to be in excellent condition, housed safely behind glass with no visible fading, foxing, or moisture damage. The double matting is clean and aligned, and the frame shows only minimal wear consistent with age. Excellent preservation of the pencil signature and numbering.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.