Albert Earnest Backus (American, 1906-1991). An Albert Backus oil painting, charcoal & rare letter archive will sell in Manor Auctions July 30th Fine Art Auction. Albert "Beanie" Backus or A.E. Backus is one of the most prominent Florida Landscape artists ever to live. The pieces being offered are divided among 2 lots, 15132 & 15133. As leader in the acquisition, marketing and sale of Florida landscape art,  such as the Florida Highwaymen and A.E. Backus, Manor is pleased to bring these Backus works to auction.

Backus is known as a painter, teacher and philanthropist. Born in South Florida along the Indian River in 1903, Backus served in WWII before becoming a predominately self-taught painter. Early in his art career Backus painted billboards and movie marquees, but perhaps he became most well known for his Florida landscapes and teaching. Living most of his life in Ft. Pierce, FL, Backus honed his painting skills and developed in to an accomplished and sought after painter. Backus paintings are sought after by many of the world's top landscape art collectors.

Perhaps one of the most defining moments in the life of A.E. Backus was meeting Al Hair, a little known African American who aspired to become a prominent Florida landscape artist. Al Hair, along with friend Harold Newton, joined with 24 other friends to form the original 26 Florida Highwaymen painters. To this day, many of the original Highwaymen continue to define Florida landscape art as they paint their unique Florida landscapes and hold specialty art shows. In 2004 all of the original 26 Florida Highwaymen were inducted in to the Florida Artist Hall of Fame.

For auction details and bidding information, please contact Manor Auctions at 850-523-3787 or visit the July 30th Catalog Auction

Manor Auctions, July 30th Fine Art Catalog Auction will offer the following Backus pieces:

Lot 15132: ALBERT E. BACKUS - PASTEL & LETTERS OF NELLIE WOOD

Albert Earnest "Bean" Backus pastel painting of his girlfriend, Nellie Wood O'Riordan. Pastel on felt. Backus's family tried fervently to hide her identity from the public. Nellie was known as the recipient of "The Golden Poet Award" in 1989, and her book, "Rhymes and Reasons," was quite successful. This lot also includes a rare grouping correspondence letters between Nellie and her long-time friends. All of the letters are signed, and each one mentions "Beanie," Backus's nickname. The letters are so evocative, that one can easily imagine moments between lovers. Her letters also vividly describe her social mileu as an invited guest at the Florida's Governor's Mansion (in Tallahassee, FL) and a notation following Backus's death, Nellie described how Backus had told her that he wasn't feeling well and goes on to say that he died later that day. Also included are limited edition postcards (unused) and an Easter card, all featuring Backus's works. Nellie's book, "Rhymes and Reasons", is also part of this lot. A unique and interesting Backus art and ephemera lot. The pastel has also includes authentication and appraised by the A.E. Backus gallery in Ft. Pierce, FL. Size: 16" x 13" Condition: VGC Lot: 15132

This lot is unique in the fact it includes a private letter archive discussing life with Backus and also describing the day he passed.

Lot 15133: ALBERT E. BACKUS - OIL ON BOARD PAINTING SAILBOAT

Albert Ernest "Bean" Backus (American 1906 - 1991). Painting of a sailboat. One of his "Caribbean" paintings. Known as the "Dean of Florida painters" and the man who began the story of the African American Highwaymen painters, Backus was responsible for teaching and mentoring Al Hair who, in turn, taught the others. Some of the original Florida Highwaymen are still painting today. This painting depicts a small sail boat at sea, signed bottom right. Size: 12.5" x 17" plus the frame Condition: VGC Lot: 15133

Along with the A.E. Backus paintings, Manor is also offering a nice assortment of Florida Highwaymen paintings by Alfred Hair, Harold Newton, Robert Butler, James Gibson and Sam Newton.

Manor Auctions is a Fine Art & Collectibles auction gallery, based in Florida. Manor travels nationwide in the consultation and acquisition of fine art & collectibles to include original listed art, jewelry, diamonds, coins, timepieces, documents, militaria, memorabilia and antiquities. Manor handles single items, specialty collections and estates. Contact Manor Auctions for a no cost consultation.