Captivating 19th-Century Colored Chalk Drawing: Seated Scottish Figure (Circa 1875)

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Captivating 19th-Century Colored Chalk Drawing: Seated Scottish Figure (circa 1875)

Up for sale is a beautifully executed 19th-century colored chalk … Read more Captivating 19th-Century Colored Chalk Drawing: Seated Scottish Figure (circa 1875)

Up for sale is a beautifully executed 19th-century colored chalk drawing of a seated Scot, rendered on authentic hand-laid paper. Radiating historic charm, this piece offers a fascinating glimpse into late-Victorian art and SF performing arts history.

This piece boasts a compelling provenance that will deeply appeal to theater, dance, and Bay Area history enthusiasts. It was originally part of the esteemed collection of Russell Hartley, the legendary artist, dancer, and founder/curator of the San Francisco Performing Arts Library & Museum (now the Museum of Performance + Design).

Hartley dedicated his life to amassing significant historical art and artifacts documenting the performing arts. Because of this, it is highly probable this drawing represents a theatrical stage figure, opera character, or costume study.

Note on Provenance: While the original gallery label from Russell Hartley Fine Paintings was unfortunately lost over time, we have a clear copy of the original label that will be printed and securely included with your purchase.
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The back of the drawing features a fragment with the name "Stephanoff" penciled in at a later date. This likely references the prominent 19th-century British artistic family (such as Francis Philip Stephanoff or James Stephanoff), renowned for their detailed historical, theatrical, and costume paintings.

Medium: Colored Chalk on Hand-Laid Paper
Dimensions: 9.75" x 11"
Date: Circa 1875

Condition: Very good antique condition with minor age-appropriate toning that enhances its authentic period character. (Please see photos for close-up details).

A rare, evocative find for collectors of 19th-century drawings, Scottish interest, or theatrical ephemera. Secure this unique piece of history for your collection today! See less