Details
Description
American School Portrait of a Distinguished Gentleman (“Mr. Wilson”), c. 1835–1845, Apparently Unsigned
Dimensions
Canvas: 14" × 18"
Frame: 18.5" …
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American School Portrait of a Distinguished Gentleman (“Mr. Wilson”), c. 1835–1845, Apparently Unsigned
Dimensions
Canvas: 14" × 18"
Frame: 18.5" × 22.5" × 2"
A finely painted American School oil on canvas portrait of a distinguished gentleman, dating to the second quarter of the 19th century (c. 1835–1845). The sitter is shown three-quarter length, hands clasped, dressed in a dark frock coat, waistcoat, and high-collared white shirt with black stock. His calm authority is emphasized through pose and expression, with no extraneous props to distract from the psychological presence.
The background follows a popular portrait convention of the period: a dramatic crimson drape pulled aside to reveal what appears to be a tree trunk or outdoor element, merging domestic luxury with a suggestion of the natural world. This compositional device was commonly used to symbolize refinement, stability, and rootedness in land and community.
Symbolism & Style
Drapery: A crimson curtain, a visual shorthand for cultivated taste and wealth.
Tree / natural element: An allusion to permanence, estate, and connection to land.
Clasped hands: A dignified pose, projecting serenity, moral strength, and composure.
Executed with a sober palette and naturalistic modeling, the painting reflects the provincial portrait tradition of antebellum America, where itinerant and regional artists provided likenesses for the professional and landed classes.
Condition:
Original canvas with even craquelure.
Age-appropriate toning and scattered retouching under raking light.
Period giltwood frame with leaf-and-rope molding, likely original to the work.
The inscription on the stretcher appears to read “… Wilson,” most likely identifying the sitter.
Painted in the 1835-45 period, this portrait aligns with the wave of American domestic portraiture produced for local elites, merchants, and professionals. The surname “Wilson” suggests possible ties to prominent New England or Mid-Atlantic families of the era.
This portrait is both a decorative statement and a historical artifact, offering insight into the visual culture of antebellum America. Its symbolic background and well-preserved frame make it a compelling addition to collections of early American art and interiors.
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- Dimensions
- 18.5ʺW × 1.5ʺD × 22.5ʺH
- Styles
- American Classical
- Frame Type
- Framed
- Art Subjects
- Portrait
- Period
- 19th Century
- Country of Origin
- United States
- Item Type
- Vintage, Antique or Pre-owned
- Materials
- Canvas
- Giltwood
- Condition
- Good Condition, Unknown, Some Imperfections
- Color
- Black
- Condition Notes
- Good Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses. Good Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses. less
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