Early Reflections
by Robert Daughters
(1929-2013)

By Rebekah Powers | April 2025

The ancient jewelry technique of cloisonné is the inspiration behind the technique of the expressionistic painter, Robert Daughters.

Daughters called his unique painting technique of short energetic brushstrokes with dark outlines “cloisonnism”, inspired by gemstones in jewelry separated by fine metal walls, and his simplicity and luminosity soon set him apart from everyone else.

His use of color and subjects resonate with works from the original Taos Society of Artists. Chimayo Trading is thrilled to acquire this rare painting by Daughters of the Ranchos Saint Francis Church of Assisi titled, “Early Reflections”.

“Early Reflections”, Oil on canvas, ca. 1980s – 20″ x 24″

According to gallery owner Gabe Abrums, Daughters wasn’t as prolific as some of his contemporaries, so you don’t often see his paintings come on the market, especially a painting like this one.

“Daughters showed his work at my grandmother’s gallery, Brandywine Galleries, in Albuquerque. He was also represented by Gallery A in Taos, where this painting was originally purchased by a local Taos collector and hasn’t been seen until now.”

What makes this painting particularly collectible beyond the freshness of it on the market, is that auction prices have recently exceeded that of high-end galleries, proving the continued desirability of Daughters work.

This painting represents two of the most iconic Taos subjects: the Ranchos Saint Francis Church and summer hollyhocks in bloom, which give it relevance and charm. The view he took looks almost as though it is painted from the portal at Chimayo Trading.

Like many artists before him, Daughters had made a successful living but left it all behind for the magnificence of the mountains and the freedom of expression that feeds the soul. His legacy will forever be linked to a venerable group of rugged individualists, the Taos Six who formed an alliance and supported each other as they evolved and differentiated themselves in the Taos art scene. A rare moment of confluence between all of the members of the Taos Six is a moment not to be missed. And this beautiful painting, Early Reflections by Robert Daughters is a meaningful piece of history reflecting that very place where it is showing now, at Chimayo Trading.

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Come to the gallery to see where History Meets Art in Taos..

#1 Saint Francis Church Plaza
Ranchos de Taos, NM 87557

575.758.0504

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