Unsigned and attributed to. The painting is in good condition, it has been relined at some point. Painting is 24" x 32". Frame size is 32" x 40". Includes "The Peale Family" book. This painting by Charles Willson Peale was completed during the time he was a student of Benjamin West in London (1767-1769). It is in the likeness of West's Fidelia & Speranza painting. Peale painted several items different in size and color so that it would not be an exact copy. The faces are rumoured to be those of his family. Peale was known 'not' to sign family paintings. The Great Grandparents of the current owner of this painting, Helen Maury Polk and Henry Hague Vaughan were quite well off financially and traveled extensively throughout Europe collecting art during the turn of the 20th century. As relatives of the 11th US President, James K Polk (1795-1849), the family had a special interest in paintings by Charles Willson Peale. Mr. Peale's sister (Elizabeth Peale Polk 1747-1774) was married to privateer Capt. Robert Polk (1744-1777). Their early deaths left their 12 year old son, Charles Peale Polk, an orphan. Artist / Uncle Charles Willson Peale adopted his nephew Charles Peale Polk. Mr. Peale spent much time teaching his Nephew to paint. Charles Peale Polk also became a famous artist.