Martin Lewis (1881-1962), Little Penthouse, drypoint, 1931, signed in pencil lower right [signed in the plate in a rectangle lower left]. Reference: McCarron 91, only state. Printed for inclusion in the Deluxe Edition of American Etchers Volume XI (Martin Lewis) by the Crafton Collection, NY, and distributed by P&D Colnaghi in London in 1931. The total number of recorded impressions is 84. In fine condition, with full margins, 9 7/8 x 6 13/16 inches, the sheet 11 1/2 x 8 1/2 inches.
A fine glowing impression, printed on a cream laid paper.
Martin Lewis was born in Victoria Australia, and in his late teens moved to Sydney, where he received his only formal art training. In 1900 he came to the US, first to San Francisco, but eventually to New York, where he worked as a commercial artist and etcher (and became friends with Edward Hopper, among other artists). In 1920 he traveled to Japan, where he studied art for two years; the influence of his Japanese experience can perhaps be felt in the quiet dignity, and stately composition, of Little Penthouse.
