Rachmaninoff Concerto

Date1962-1963

Artist Justin McCarthy (1892-1977)

MediumOil on reverse of Formica-covered panel

DimensionsUnframed: 26 1/2 x 42in. (67.3 x 106.7cm) and Framed: 27 3/4 x 42 7/8in.

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1971.101.2

DescriptionAn elevated view of a group of ice skaters in white and yellow costumes, the ice appearing a bluish-pink or light purple color.

Original 3/4-inch flat pine frame, unpainted.Label TextMcCarthy's fondness for bright colors is readily apparent in this picture featuring numerous female ice skaters dressed in white and yellow costumes against a light purple background. The picture carries the additional title of "Ice Capades" in the artist's bold inscription at lower left; together the two titles presumably indicate that the skaters were members of the well-known American group Ice Capades performing to the Russian composer Sergey Vasilyevich Rachmaninoff's music, probably Piano Concerto No. 2.
Like Eskimo Dogs (acc. no. 1971.101.1), this picture illustrates the vigorous, broad brush strokes so characteristic of McCarthy's technique.Inscription(s)The inscription at lower left reads: "ICE CAPADES/1962-3/by/Justin McCarthy"; at bottom center is, "Rachmaninoff Concerto."ProvenanceSterling Strauser, Stroudsburg, Pa.