RALPH CAHOON
Oceanside Family Outing
Featuring his Hallmark Mermaids 

Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Signed lower right: R. Cahoon, 1979. Oil on Masonite. Commissioned by the J.S. Harmon Family.

Ralph Cahoon (1910-1982) is celebrated as one of America's most beloved folk art painters, renowned for his vibrant and whimsical depictions of life in nineteenth-century coastal New England settings. His iconic artworks are highly coveted by both antique and contemporary collectors alike.

In this enchanting family scene, a majestic whale serves as a floating dock for a lively summer outing. Spirited mermaids frolic alongside a dapper sailor, while children joyfully fish and fly kites. Look closely to spot their cherished dogs and a curious cat, adding to the charm. A picturesque lighthouse and a stately three-masted ship flying the American flag complete the idyllic coastal setting, creating a celebration of family, fun, and the joys of summer.

Cahoon's unique blend of humor and artistry has attracted a distinguished following, including notable collectors such as Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Paul Mellon, the DuPont family, and Josiah K. Lilly III, as well as numerous prestigious museums. His works capture a timeless spirit of innocence and whimsy, offering a delightful escape to a simpler, more carefree era.

Original frame, frame size about 24 x 20 inches. MINT CONDITION. This captivating painting comes from a private Ohio collection, presenting a rare opportunity to own one of Ralph Cahoon’s finest creations.