American School Portrait of George Washington

ca. 1860-80.

Oil on canvas with original medial brace stretcher.

56 x 42 inches

Painted by an unidentified 19th century artist. Likely inspired by Alonzo Chappel's

ca. 1860 painting, "George Washington: Design for an Engraving," which is held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (accession no. 83.2.473).

The unidentified artist of the Washington portrait made changes to the Chappel original composition, such as eliminating the sword, and chair as well as adding the table with books and writing ink bottle. It is likely that this painting was commissioned for a large home or a public building in the second half of the 19th century.

It is interesting to note that the panting is signed “T.S.” for Thomas Sully (1783-1872), the painting is not in the style of Sully so it is likely that a lesser artist added this signature. 

Condition: Lined, overall craquelure, repaired tear above Washington’s right arm, scattered repaired holes with corresponding old repairs . Signature  “ T.S.” likely a later addition or added by the unidentified artist. Frame is a period 19th century frame but not original to painting.

Provenance: Purchased from an old estate in Fredericksburg Virginia about 12 years ago.

Frame: 46 1/2 x 61 inches

$ 18,500