Elmer Green 

(1907-1964) 

All areas of interest or study have their own language or expressions. In paintings you often hear the phrase, “it’s a good package.” This sort of combines the painting and the frame in terms of condition, no restoration, originality, etc. This little Oriental still life had that quality when I saw it in a Skinner’s auction in 2001. It’s in untouched condition, with a beautiful signed and dated Thulin frame. Elmer Green’s bio shows extensive activity around the Boston and wider New England area, with paintings and murals in numerous public institutions, including my alma mater, Dartmouth College. It’s an intriguing little picture, a really good package.