Lot 89: ORONZO GASPARO

David Smith's First Sculpture Exhibition.

Watercolor, brush and ink on warm cream wove paper, circa 1938. 420x340 mm; 16 1/2x13 3/8 inches. Inscribed, "David Smith first Sculpture Exhibition at the East River Gallery and Sutton Place about 1935-6 by Oronzo Gasparo" in ink, lower left recto. Inscribed "1st Exhibition of David Smith at East River Gally East 57th St. by Oronzo Gasparo 167 1/2 E 115 St. New York then at 121 W 3rd St 1935-6" ink, center verso. Ex-collection the artist; a gift to Edward Sternberg, New York, thence by descent to the current owner; private collection, New York.

According to the David Smith estate, his first exhibit at Marion Willard's East River Gallery was held in 1938. Smith was represented by the gallery for the next 18 years.