Lot 144: John Prentiss Benson (American, 1865-1947)

Columbus' Ships Coming to America Signed and dated "John P. Benson 1923" l.l. Oil on canvas, 32 x 89 in. (81.2 x 226 cm), framed. Condition: Surface grime, craquelure. N.B. Benson was a native of Salem, Massachusetts. Both John and his brother Frank W. Benson took an early interest in artistic expression. Encouraged by the family to pursue architecture, John worked designing both residential and commercial buildings for many years. By the 1920s however, John decided to give up his career and pursue his true passion, painting, full time. He painted predominantly from his home in Kittery, Maine.