Rare Early 20th-Century Cabinet Scene Portrait — Attributed to Woodrow Wilson Era, Signed “Bon Art,” C. 1919–1921

Details

Description

A compelling and evocative early 20th-century historical portrait, depicting what appears to be President Woodrow Wilson seated with members of … Read more A compelling and evocative early 20th-century historical portrait, depicting what appears to be President Woodrow Wilson seated with members of his cabinet, captured in a formal interior setting. The composition recalls iconic governmental imagery of the post-World War I era, making this piece particularly resonant with American political history and institutional portraiture.

Rendered with a muted, period-appropriate palette and expressive, painterly surface, the work carries the gravity and atmosphere of its time. The painting is signed “Bon Art” in the lower right and is believed to date to circa 1919–1921, aligning closely with Wilson’s final term and the Treaty of Versailles period.

The painting remains in unaltered, original condition, exhibiting visible chipping, flaking, and surface wear consistent with age and long-term storage. These imperfections contribute to its authenticity and visual texture, lending it a powerful, timeworn presence. Because of its honest patina and historical subject matter, the piece would be exceptionally well suited for film, television, theater, or period set design, as well as collectors drawn to Americana, political history, or academic interiors.

Unframed and painted on canvas, this is a true artifact-like object, rich in narrative and atmosphere rather than restoration—ideal for those who appreciate originality over perfection.

Details

Artist: Signed “Bon Art”
Subject: Woodrow Wilson cabinet scene (historical political portrait)
Date: Circa 1919–1921
Medium: Painting on canvas
Condition: Original, unrestored condition with chipping and flaking consistent with age
Dimensions: 24" W x 30" H
Frame: Unframed

Why We Love It

This piece feels less like décor and more like a discovered relic—an atmospheric window into early 20th-century American governance. Its aged surface and historical gravitas make it equally compelling as a collector’s conversation piece or a ready-to-use period prop. See less