Artist-Retained Antique California Plein-Air Oil by Sarah Elizabeth “Sadie” Truax (1872–1959)

An original signed antique oil on canvas by early California artist Sarah Elizabeth “Sadie” Truax (1872–1959) depicting an East San Diego neighborhood landscape, likely painted en plein air in the early 20th century. Truax studied at the Art Institute of Chicago before establishing her own studio on Fairmount Avenue in East San Diego around 1912. She served as Secretary-Treasurer of the San Diego Art Guild for more than 20 years, taught landscape painting alongside renowned California artist Charles Reiffel, and exhibited at the Panama-California International Exposition (1916), the California Pacific International Exposition (1935), and the Golden Gate International Exposition (1939). Plein-air painting was central to Truax’s career. She was a close friend and longtime colleague of Charles Reiffel. They taught landscape painting together through the San Diego Art Guild, and family history recalls that they frequently painted outdoors together throughout San Diego. Family tradition also identifies Sadie as the seated painter in Reiffel’s 1930 painting Summer Session at Ballast Point, shown in the accompanying photos. Because Truax maintained her studio on Fairmount Avenue, it is possible this neighborhood scene was painted from or near her studio. This has not been independently verified but is consistent with the location and subject matter. Provenance This painting remained in Sarah Elizabeth “Sadie” Truax’s personal collection until her death in 1959. Following her passing, my grandmother helped settle Sadie Truax’s estate. Family members were invited to select paintings and personal belongings. As a teenager, my mother selected this painting along with several others, and it remained displayed in our family home for decades before passing to me. Our family continues to own additional original works by Sarah Elizabeth “Sadie” Truax, including oil paintings, drawings, miniatures, and ceramics. Details * Original signed oil on canvas * Antique (early 20th century) * Likely painted en plein air * Approx. 22.5” × 24.5” framed * Family provenance This artwork is offered from a private family collection. Serious collector inquiries are welcome.

Condition

Used (normal wear)

Features

Signed, Framed

Size

Medium (up to 36in.)

Style

Impressionism, likely Plein Air

Medium

Oil