Preliminary identification

Richard Wilson 'The Shadow' Framed Print

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

A powerful work of contemporary realism from the 'Shadow Series,' depicting an elderly man and a young boy against a rustic wooden backdrop. The central narrative is the boy's shadow, which appears as a large, strong man, symbolizing the potential of the next generation and the legacy of the elders.

Story

Created by North Carolina artist Richard Wilson, this image became a modern icon of African American art. It visualizes the 'invisible' weight of legacy—how a child's future is shaped by the quiet strength of those who came before. The shadow isn't just a silhouette; it's a prophecy of the man the boy will become.

Maker / Origin

Richard D. Wilson Jr. is a celebrated artist whose work has been featured in major productions like 'This Is Us' and 'Barbershop: The Next Cut.' He is known for his 'Shadow Series,' which pairs children with the shadows of trailblazers or their own future selves to inspire hope and dignity.

Condition & Value

The print appears to be in good condition within its frame, though the thrift store tag suggests it may have been handled frequently. The frame itself looks standard; a high-quality archival frame would push the value toward the top of the range. Excellent condition and professional framing command a premium.

Full Research

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

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.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps

Regional auction

· Jun 2024

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

$1,280

SOLD

Dealer archive

· Mar 2024

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

$1,450

SOLD

Marketplace sale

· Jan 2024

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

$980

SOLD

Estate platform

· Oct 2023

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

$1,150

SOLD

Auction result

· Aug 2023

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.

$1,375

SOLD