American 1860s Watercolour - Male Portrait

Description

A very fine watercolour en grisaille depicting a man resting his hand on a top hat on a writing desk, likely painted during the American Civil War (1861-1865). The sitter's chin curtain beard, also known as the Amish beard or Shenandoah, famously worn by Abraham Lincoln, signifies his allegiance to the Union. He bears some similarities to Hugh McCulloch (1808-1895), financier and last surviving member of the Lincoln Cabinet, who can be seen in a similar composition in a surviving photograph. Presented glazed in a fine gilt frame with leaf and berry moulding to the inner edge and ornate pierced foliate moulding to the outer edge. The pair to this portrait, likely depicting the wife of the subject, is also available at Sulis Fine Art. On wove.

Condition

There are some areas of restoration to the frame. There is some minor discolouration and some small surface marks. Overall well-presented and in very good condition.

Size

56.2 x 38.7cm (22.1" x 15.2")
Framed Size: 74.4 x 56.6cm (29.3" x 22.3")