Alfred Montgomery (American, 1857–1922)
Single Ear of Corn (Classic Corn)
Oil on cigar box lid, c. late 19th century. Signed with conjoined “AM” monogram, lower left.
This rare and early still life by Alfred Montgomery depicts a single ear of corn—often referred to as classic corn—rendered in the artist’s distinctive heavy impasto technique. While Montgomery is celebrated for agricultural subjects, compositions devoted to a solitary ear are uncommon, making this focused example particularly significant.
Painted on a cigar box lid, the work reflects Montgomery’s early materials and working methods. The dark ground and sculptural application of paint elevate the humble subject into a study of form, texture, and light, exemplifying the artist’s restrained yet expressive vision.
This painting remains in very good original, untouched condition, with tax stamps and pencil labels preserved on the verso.
Provenance: The Van Dyke Family, Marshall, Missouri—civic leaders and entrepreneurs active on the Marshall square from circa 1871.