Lot 114265

Ross Stefan (1934-1999) Original Oil Painting, Native American Maiden Portrait

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Ross Stefan (1934-1999) Original Oil Painting, Native American Maiden Portrait

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Current Bid: $650

(7 Bids)

by Ace Of Estates
June 28, 2026 2:00 PM MST
Timed Auction

Carefree, AZ, US 85377

Condition:
Artwork presents in excellent condition with vibrant, stable paint and no signs of craquelure or loss. The canvas is taut and properly seated within the frame. Signed clearly by the artist in the lower left quadrant. The period wood frame, which complements the piece beautifully, exhibits minor, superficial scuffs and light abrasions, primarily at the corners and raised edges, consistent with age and handling. The linen liner is clean with what appears to be very faint, uniform age toning but no overt staining or damage. The verso is professionally sealed with a black dust cover and retains its original hanging hardware.

Item Description
Weight: 5lbs 7oz

A work of profound quietude and dignity, this original oil on canvas by the celebrated Arizona artist Ross Stefan captures more than a likeness; it distills a spirit. The painting immediately commands attention not through overt action, but through the serene, contemplative presence of its subject. Stefan eschews a literal landscape, instead enveloping the figure in an atmospheric backdrop of rich, abstract earth tones and ethereal light, a masterful technique that isolates the maiden from a specific time and place, elevating her to an archetype of enduring grace and cultural resilience. Her gaze is introspective, turned away from the viewer, inviting us not to interrupt her thoughts but to respectfully witness a moment of private reflection.

Detailed Analysis:
Stefan’s brushwork is a dynamic force, both controlled and liberated. The confident, textural application of paint—a hallmark of his mature style—brings the canvas to life. Notice the intricate rendering of the traditional regalia: the brilliant cobalt and sky blue of the circular beaded earring, the complex pattern of the breastplate, and the single white feather that provides a point of high contrast in her dark hair. The magenta shawl, draped with palpable weight, is a masterclass in form and color, its fringe rendered in quick, impressionistic strokes that suggest the whisper of a desert wind. The light, seemingly emanating from the left, models her features with soft dimensionality and casts a firm, grounding shadow to her right, solidifying her place within the composition.

Emotional Resonance & Meaning:
This portrait is an intimate dialogue between artist and subject, a testament to Stefan's deep respect for the Native peoples of the American Southwest. There is no trace of mere ethnographic study here; instead, the work resonates with a deeply felt humanism. The maiden's posture—poised, calm, hands tucked away—conveys a self-contained strength. Stefan captures the soul of his subject, portraying a quiet pride and a connection to heritage that is both personal and universal. It is a piece that speaks to the persistence of tradition and the profound beauty of inner peace against a vast, abstract world.

Artist Biography:
Ross Stefan (1934-1999) was a prodigious and largely self-taught artist who became a luminary of modern Western art. Born in Wisconsin, he moved to Arizona for health reasons and quickly fell under the spell of the region's dramatic light and cultural tapestry. Drawing inspiration from the Taos Society of Artists, Stefan developed a unique and recognizable style characterized by bold, impressionistic brushwork and a sophisticated color palette. He achieved remarkable success at a young age, with his first one-man show in Tucson at just 13 years old. Throughout his career, he dedicated himself to capturing the landscapes, peoples, and enduring spirit of the American Southwest, earning a distinguished place in the canon of the genre.

  • Artist: Ross Stefan (1934-1999)
  • Medium: Oil on Canvas
  • Signature: Hand-signed "Ross Stefan" lower left
  • Image Dimensions: 21.4 x 15.3 inches
  • Framed Dimensions: 27.52 x 21.56 x 2.30 inches
  • Total Weight: 5 lbs 7 oz
  • Origin: United States (Arizona)


Flat rate shipping contiguous 48 states: $95.00

Only items pictured are what you will receive. We are not aware of any accessories that are not shown with the unit. If an item requires testing, we do not guarantee long term use. This is an estate item, history is unknown. We are not experts, we do not authenticate items unless otherwise noted. All sales are final. No refunds or returns.

Ref: JPC522 | PD1

Dimensions (HxWxD)
Frame: 27.52 x 21.56" x 2.30"

Weight
5lbs 7oz

Flat Shipping Rate
(Within Contiguous U.S.)

$95.00

Local Pickup
We offer local pickup of your item by appointment only. Once your payment has been processed, you will receive a follow-up email to schedule a pickup time on the specified dates listed below. Detailed directions to the pickup location will be provided once your appointment is confirmed.

Pick-Up Dates/Time:
By Appointment Tuesday 6/30/26 or Wednesday 7/1/26,10am to 4pm

Pick-Up Location:
The Town of Cave Creek, Spur Cross & Cave Creek Rd (exact address will be given after purchase is complete)

Item number:
114265

Ref:
JPC522
PD1
ART710
NAM820
WES550
HOM500
NAM731

  • Dimensions: Frame: 27.52 x 21.56" x 2.30"
  • Condition: Artwork presents in excellent condition with vibrant, stable paint and no signs of craquelure or loss. The canvas is taut and properly seated within the frame. Signed clearly by the artist in the lower left quadrant. The period wood frame, which complements the piece beautifully, exhibits minor, superficial scuffs and light abrasions, primarily at the corners and raised edges, consistent with age and handling. The linen liner is clean with what appears to be very faint, uniform age toning but no overt staining or damage. The verso is professionally sealed with a black dust cover and retains its original hanging hardware.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

ACH, American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Money Order / Cashiers Check, Visa, Wire Transfer

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $49 $5
$50 $199 $10
$200 $499 $25
$500 + $50