• Address: Spokane, WA 99210 (map)
• Date Posted: 11/27/09

I acquired this charcoal rendering in 1998 at a local Spokane "Estate Sale" The rendering was framed in a very old wooden frame with a glass face. On the reverse side on the dust cover was the following stamp:

"The Art Galleries - 3724 So. Peoria - RI 7-1439"

We did consult with two art experts on this work initially and it was their opinions, in both cases, that this is an original work. Their opinions were based upon the limited charcoal coloration of the rendering, the age appearance of the parchment, and the over-all appearance of the work itself. Based upon these professional opinions, we decided to have the rendering professionally framed in a preservation type museum mounting.

The professional who removed the rendering from the old wooden frame was himself an artist and very familiar with ancient works. He noted that there was "some writing" that appeared on the lower left area of the rendering and found the following inscription:

"St. Bironica Church, Ambridge, Penn.

This is commissioned by Albert Czulak

October 14, 1952 at 10 a.m.

St. Joseph 12th. Sunday after Pentecost"

Andrew Czulak, (Austria-Hungry Empire) and Anna Czulak, (Czechoslovakia), immigrated to the United States in 1925. They operated a number of retail stores, including a photography shop and department store located at 528 Merchant Street, Ambridge, PA. They were very wealthy, traveled the world extensively, and acquired a number of rare art pieces. The rendering itself has the following inscription:

"S. Fr. Xeivier

El Cajero, Marque De Santa Cruz,

Octobre 19, 1552"

We are now senior's who are downsizing and would like to see this work go to a collector who appreciates Spanish Art like we do. We are open to any reasonable offer. Work measures approx. 26" wide by 19"high and 35" wide by 29" framed.