[Washington, George] Painting of George Washington at Dorchester Heights, c. 1830. Original oil on canvas attributed to Jane Stuart after her father, Gilbert Stuart's painting of the same title. Measures 16" x 25" by sight; housed in an antique frame measuring 21" x 29". A full-length portrait of Washington during the siege of Boston in March 1776. His left hand holds the reins of his white horse and rests on the horse's back; his right hand holds his tricorn hat. Washington wears a blue jacket with yellow trim, and a yellow waistcoat and breeches. Some craquelure to painting, which is a fine example.
Jane Stuart (c. 1808 or 1812-1888) was the 12th and youngest child of Gilbert and Charlotte Stuart. As a child, she assisted her father by grinding pigments and filling in backgrounds, but never received any formal training from him; nevertheless, she listened as he instructed his students and taught herself by copying her father's paintings. She first exhibited at the Boston Athenaeum as early as 1827, and when her father died deeply in debt in 1828, her family depended on her talent to support them. The family moved to Newport, Rhode Island, in 1831, and Jane became a leading portrait painter. She is regarded as the best copyist of Gilbert Stuart. Examples of this painting may be found in the Smithsonian Museum and the Maryland Historical Society.
Estimated Value $25,000-UP.
Ex Historical Collectible Auctions, 2007; private collector William Chaney; Sotheby's, 2000.
U.S. Presidential Memorabilia
