GREAT Oil Portrait of a Federal American Surgeon, Dr. John Huston, c.1825!

Antiques : Art : Oil/Portraits/American

 

Dating to ca. 1820-1830, this important oil on acadamy board portrait of a Federal American surgeon comes directly from my personal collection of early American art!

This portrait represents an important record of a prosperous surgeon in Federal America, and will make a wonderful addition to any collection of American art. Its size is perfect for display in any room, and although unsigned, it is painted with an academic hand. It has strongly been suggested by a Maryland museum curator that this sitter might be Dr. John Huston (1768-1828), a prominent Salisbury, MD surgeon born in Philadelphia, but this cannot be 100% confirmed.

This handsome portrait was discovered at a Pennsylvania estate, but was reportedly painted in Maryland. The portrait depicts a doctor about 50 years of age, who wears his brown hair fashionably swept forward, and has brown eyes, ruddy cheeks, and a benevolent expression. He is dressed at the height of fashion for the mid-1820s. The gentleman wears a black frock coat, a tall white stock with a mother-of-pearl buttoned shirt-front, a wide, black neck cloth, and one can see a black ribbon which disappears into his black vest, likely holding a hidden watch.

This gentleman sits with one arm resting on the back of his chair, and the other hand holds a book which bears the title "Surgical Essays" on the spine, indicating his profession. In the background is a bookcase with additional books. The surgeon's hands are painted as strong and capable, another sign of his chosen field. One hand even sports a Georgian-era pinky ring!

This beautifully-executed portrait measures 11 1/2" x 14" sight size, and is mounted in a mid-20th-century gilt wood frame with the label "Newman Galleries/1625 Walnut Street/Philadelphia." The total size of the portrait in the frame measures 15 3/4" x 18 1/2". The portrait is painted in oils on acadamy board, and is in excellent condition, with no inpainting. The only wear to this 180-year old portrait is a light scuffing to the right edge of the background behind the frame; this could easily be restored, but it is not visible unless you really look for it. Otherwise, this portrait is in superb, all-original condition!

If you collect the FINEST in American portraits, this rare oil painting will make a wonderful addition to your collection! It would also make a great gift for any 21st-century surgeon! Do not miss this significant American work of art!

LAYAWAY IS AVAILABLE ON THIS ITEM! Terms are as follows: 30% down, with 90 days to pay the balance. If you are interested in layaway, please do not be shy; just ask!

Item ID: 538