1970s "Golden Gate, San Francisco" Cityscape Artist's Proof Lithograph
If you're going to San Francisco, but haven't chosen the flowers for your hair, this colorful, whimsical, detailed lithograph by Gus Bayz may provide some inspiration. He meticulously drafted the historical homes and buildings on the city's famed Nob Hill, including people looking out of their porches, or walking the shops at the foot of the hill. In the background is the famous Golden Gate Bridge, itself an architectural triumph.
The coloring is so good that many people mistake his prints for watercolors. However, this lithograph was produced with traditional lithographic techniques - it is NOT an inexpensive offset print.
Little is known for this artist of such recent vintage, but I will sketch what I can. Gus C. Bayz flourished in the 1970s-90s, producing charming works of San Francisco in watercolors, lithographs and etchings. My suspicion is that many of the so-called watercolors are misidentified. Nonetheless, he and his wife Lucy teamed as artists, working in Sherman Oaks, California. Unconfirmed information also indicates that he worked in the film industry.
The print is titled and designated as an artist's proof in pencil and signed and dated to 1973 which was the beginning of his known output which I have found no earlier than 1972. This lithograph is matted, glazed surrounded by silver metal frame.
Even if you're not going to San Francisco, perhaps that is where your heart lays. Feed its desires with this semi-antique lithograph.
Dimensions: 19.25" w, .75" d, 24.25" h
The print and frame are in very good to excellent condition. The worst defect might be a bit of toning to the matte.