Lot 87267: J. ALLEN ST. JOHN (American 1872 - 1957) The

J. ALLEN ST. JOHN (American 1872 - 1957) The Bacchante, 1923 Oil on board 48 x 96 in. Signed lower left This huge, lushly painted work was created during St. John's peak period when he was at the height of his powers as an illustrator. Already well-known for his many successful illustrations for the popular writers of the time, St. John painted this scene, a copy of a 1909 canvas by popular turn-of-the-century British artist Arthur Wardle, to demonstrate that he was not limited to the field and could create easel paintings to rival any artist. Evocatively depicting a priestess of Bacchus in a giant field of poppies, this tableau allowed St. John's talent for pure painting free reign: the priestess's flowing robes, the graceful movement of the leopards, gorgeously rendered background, and a keyed up palette combine magically in this personal work, which is extremely rare in the marketplace. The painting hung in St. John's Tree Studio in Chicago from the time of its creation until 1985 when it was purchased by noted Burroughs collector Russ Cochran. The carved wood frame was also created by St. John. Please note that Heritage does not have possession of this painting, so we are unable to provide a first-hand condition report. The winning bidder will need to make shipping arrangements directly with the consignor.