Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
A vintage offset lithograph print of a watercolor painting by American illustrator Edward W. Hurst, depicting a serene winter scene of a New England church. This piece was originally part of a high-quality promotional calendar, a staple of mid-century corporate branding and American home decor.
Story
Insurance companies in the 1940s competed to hang on your wall by commissioning top-tier artists for their calendars. This Hurst watercolor captured a quiet, snowy Sunday that offered a sense of stability during a turbulent era.
Maker / Origin
Edward W. Hurst was a noted 20th-century American illustrator known for his delicate watercolor technique and architectural accuracy. His work frequently appeared in national advertisements and corporate commissions, bridging the gap between commercial art and fine gallery painting.
Condition & Value
The print shows visible foxing (brown spots) and water staining on the white margins. There is also a crease in the upper left corner. These condition issues reduce the value by approximately 50% compared to a mint-state print.
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.