Frank Johnston was drawn to the majesty of the West. In 1924, while serving as the head of the Winnipeg School of Art, he ventured into the Rocky Mountains to sketch and experience their grandeur firsthand. That same year, J.E.H. MacDonald, Lawren Harris, and A.Y. Jackson also traveled westward, followed by Arthur Lismer in 1928.

‘Lake Louise at Dawn’ is a stunning example of this iconic subject. Adding to its significance, the panel bears Johnston’s signature ("Frank," rather than "Franz") on both sides of the panel - changing his name to Franz in 1926 to distance himself from the Group of Seven. The work has remained in private hands for generations, preserved in excellent condition, with no prior exposure to the auction market. A commemorative inscription on the reverse, written by the artist’s son, further enhances its provenance.