DAVID SILVETTE (VIRGINIA, 1909-1992) PORTRAIT OF A YOUNG MAN, oil on canvas, a waist length depiction of a young man in a turtleneck sweater and brown vest, history of being possibly a portrait of Landon Carter Wellford. Signed "David Silvette '73" lower right. Verso of frame reading indistinctly "(illegible) De Leslie". Housed in a likely original period frame. American. Circa 1973. 23 1/2" x 19 1/2" sight, 29 1/2" x 25 1/2" OA.
Catalogue Note: David Silvette was the son of accomplished Virginia portrait artist Ellis Meyer Silvette (1876-1940). He initially studied under his father, then went on to study with other East Coast portraitists like Cecilia Beaux and Charles Hawthorne. David soon became renowned in Virginia for his portraits of significant historical figures and business leaders. During World War II he joined the military and was awarded the Purple Heart. After the war, Silvette resumed painting portraits and began to paint murals for federal buildings. He passed away in Richmond, Virginia at the age of 83. His exhibitions include the Corcoran Gallery in 1932, where he was awarded a bronze medal, and 1937. His works are included in the collections of the Virginia State Capitol, the Corcoran Gallery of Art, and the Richmond Academy of Fine Art. Some of his most popular works include the portraits of F. Scott Fitzgerald and a young Thomas Jefferson, along with portraits of Confederate leaders and soldiers.

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

Very good condition overall, the painting undamaged, minor wear to the frame.