Torcello, by Margaret J. Patterson, Amer., (1867-1950)

Color Woodcut, 1919 Ed. 100, fewer printed, 10-1/4 x 7-3/16, signed and titled in pencil. Exhibiting Patterson's gift for beautiful color harmony and treatment of water in this Italian subject; with brick red sail, subtle striated modulations of blue in the water and reddish purple reflecting the sail. She further activates this tranquil scene with a looping, linear blue tracery of currents in the water. There is moderate toning to the margins within the mat opening and a small stray stroke of blue in the signature. Printed on the fibrous cream wove japan paper Patterson favored with pilling of the paper verso from vigorous hand printing. We note very few impressions collectively  at auction over the past 30 years, in comparison with other Pattersons; suggesting Torcello remains among her scarcer prints.