Karl Yens

Untitled (Interior with Bookcase), c. 1910

• Gouache
• 10.5" x 9.25", artwork
• 20.75" x 18.75" x .75", framed
• Historic

$4,000

Provenance
Consigned to American Legacy Fine Arts, Pasadena, California; By descent to a private collector, Encino, California; Acquired in October 1998 by a private collector, San Carlos, Palo Alto, and Oceanside, California; From John Moran Auctioneers at The Pasadena Center, American Painting Sale, Pasadena, California

Description
This charming interior scene depicts a warmly colored room centered on a tall wooden bookcase stacked with neatly arranged volumes. The bold decorative red wall, patterned with small golden dots, contrasts with the pale-yellow wainscoting and green floor, creating a vibrant, almost whimsical environment. A bench with a colorful cushion rests along the right wall, while framed artworks hang above—details that hint at the personal, artistic life of the occupant. The setting may represent Yens’ own home or studio in San Pedro, California, where he resided in the early 20th century and became active in Southern California’s growing art community. The careful rendering of everyday surroundings reflects Yens’ interest in decorative arts, composition, and design, and offers a rare glimpse into an artist’s private creative space during the period.

Historical Significance
Karl Yens, born in Germany and trained in Europe, immigrated to the United States and became a significant figure in California’s art scene. Best known for his murals, portraits, and landscapes, Yens was also a member of the California Art Club and participated in exhibitions across Southern California. This 1910 gouache is a notable early work, executed during a period when Yens was establishing himself in California. Intimate interior studies such as this are rare within his body of work, making it an important example of his early domestic subject matter.

Labels on Verso
American Legacy Fine Arts, Pasadena, California
Carlson Gallery, San Francisco, California
Ronnie Carr, Antiques, Aptos, California
Title label as “The Bookcase” – Home Interior Scene
Additional title label as “Tree Study” & note “Painted in the San Bernardino Mountains”
Framers Label, Giltwood Studios, Santa Cruz, California
John Moran Auctioneers label “Lot #17A”
Label--Quality Acid-Free Matting

Framing
Presented in a period appropriate gilt frame with delicate beaded inner molding. The work is double matted in neutral tones with a fine gilt liner, enhancing the warm reds and yellows of the composition. The framing is of high presentation quality and sympathetic to the work’s early 20th century character.

Condition Report
The work is in very good condition, commensurate with age. Colors remain vivid and stable, with no significant fading. The paper appears sound, with no visible tears, creases, or staining within the image area. The work is well matted with acid free materials and protected under glazing, ensuring continued preservation. Frame and mat are in excellent condition with only minimal handling wear.

Exhibited
Scenic Route: A Half Century of California Discovery, 1900-1950, American Legacy Fine Arts, Pasadena, California, August 15 - October 11, 2025

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