William Frederick Foster, A.N.A. (1882-1953) California School STILL LIFE WITH MALLARD AND FRUIT, circa 1945 30½ x 40 inches / 34¼ x 44¼ framed Oil on canvas Signed lower left: “Will Foster ANA” Provenance: The Artist Ardanelle McCool, niece of the artist Thence by family descent Will Foster studied with Frank Duveneck (1848-1919), Joseph Henry Sharp (1859-1953), Robert Henri (1865-1929) and William Merritt Chase (1849-1916). He taught at the Chicago Art Institute and became an Associate in the National Academy of Design. Eventually Will settled in Los Angeles and was one of the most accomplished artists in the local school. He was made an honorary member of the California Art Club and taught many student artists who went on to successful careers.