Sisley Signature Authentication
Alfred Sisley (1839-1899) had a relatively consistent signature. He usually signed with his surname "Sisley" sometimes adding the last two digit of the year.
The most distinct aspect of his signature is how he wrote the first "S" in his name with sharp angular lines, like a lightening bolt. He also wrote his name in printed letters as opposed to a formal cursive signature.
In some cases Sisley included the initial of his first name, so his signature read "ASisley." Sisley's signature was usually applied in a lower corner of his canvases in a quiet and subtle manner.
Signature is rarely sufficient for authenticating a painting. Signatures must be checked, but results must be carefully placed in the correct context. A signature is only one element, and not a determining one, in the process of authentication.
Saint Mammès, Construction de bateaux "Saint Mammès, Construction de bateaux"pastel on paper, drawn circa 1880. Signed and inscribed 'Sisley à St. Mammès' on the lower left.
Le Loing à Saint-Mammès. 1883,"Le Loing à Saint-Mammès"signed 'Sisley' on the lower left. Painted in 1883. Oil on canvas.
Chemin des Fontaines à Veneux-Nadon. 1884 "Chemin des Fontaines à Veneux-Nadon." Oil on canvas. Painted in 1884, signed and dated 'Sisley. 84.' on the lower right.
Le lavoir à Bougival. 1877 "Le lavoir à Bougival." An oil on canvas signed and dated 'Sisley .77.' Lower left. Painted in 1877.
Le chemin de Butte, Retour en forêt oil on canvas, Painted in 1889 Le chemin de Butte, Retour en forêt oil on canvas. Painted in 1889, signed and dated 'Sisley. 89'in the lower left.