Hechenbleikner, Louis (American, 1893-1963) BETWEEN BIRD AND FISH EYE. Wood engraving, not dated, but stylistically appears to be 1930s. Edition of 50, signed and titled in pencil, and numbered 22/50, and also inscribed "To Whit and Maria." 12 3/8 x 9 inches (image), 15 x 11 1/2 inches (sheet). In very good condition. Born in Austria, he emigrated to the United States in 1923. He did several notable paintings for a competition for the 1932 Olymics, which were held in the U.S. His earlier prints, mostly wood-engravings, portrayed "slice of life" subjects, such as this one showing netted fish being hauled aboard a fishing boat. Later, following the trends of the times, his work became abstract and expressionistic. He was a member of the National academy of Design. He returned to Austria in 1970, and lived there until his death.
