Tavern Sign c. 1940

This Tavern Sign was painted by John Matulis, most likely with oil on wood, at some point in the twentieth century. I can almost feel the artist’s hand moving across the grainy surface, building up the image of the lion layer by layer. I like to imagine Matulis standing back and squinting, assessing the balance between realism and a more folksy, direct kind of representation. There is a certain humbleness here, but also skill. I can see the history of painting, and also his own individual decisions. The colour palette of browns, greens, and creams, applied in thin, translucent layers, gives the image a warm and inviting quality. The lion itself, with its slightly quizzical expression and carefully rendered mane, exudes a gentle strength. It reminds me of other painters like Horace Pippin, who also embraced directness in his art. There’s something very generous about that. Artists like these help us see the world with fresh eyes. They remind us that art doesn't always need to be complicated; sometimes, it just needs to be honest.