JAMES WESTHALL FORD (VIRGINIA, 1804-1874) PORTRAIT OF A LADY, oil on canvas, a fine waist-length depiction of a lady seated on a red sofa or chair with a lace shawl over her black empire-style dress, drapery frames a landscape in the background, signed "J. W. Ford" lower left. Housed in a modern metal frame. First half 19th century. 29 3/4" x 25" OA.
Catalogue Note: James Westhall Ford (1807-1874) was a portrait painter who worked primarily in Virginia. His personal archive, which is now housed at the University of Virginia, includes information about the artist's travels, business, and personal affairs, and indicates that he traveled throughout the state in search of commissions, including parts of the Shenandoah Valley. Ford was primarily based in Richmond and was most likely a student of Thomas Sully (1783-1872). In 1823 he received letters of recommendation from Thomas Jefferson and is believed to have painted a portrait of President James Monroe near the end of his term in office. Ford also painted a number of portraits for University of Virginia faculty members, also likely the result of Jefferson's introduction.

Deaccessioned by the Valentine Museum, Richmond, VA to benefit collections care, preservation, and future acquisitions.

Very good restored condition, original canvas relined and sealed to backing canvas, new stretcher added; surface of painting cleaned and restored with several areas of relatively minor inpainting.