DESCRIPTION: Claude Buck (American, 1890-1974). Oil on canvas. Portrait of Pennsylvania State Senator Robert Fleming, 1801-1874. Signed in the lower left corner "Claude Buck Copy. 1937". Born in the Bronx, New York, Claude Buck first received art education from his father, then the National Academy of Design in New York City. He worked as a scene painter in the theatre and at the Willet Stained Glass company, and in 1914 began portrait commissions to earn money. In 1929, the Arts Council of New York voted him one of the top one-hundred painters in the United States. PROVENANCE: By descent to the consignor from the family of Robert Fleming (1801-1874), Pennsylvania Senator in 1836 and 1839. Senator Fleming was born on May 12, 1801, near present day Lock Haven, Pennsylvania. He studied law and was admitted to the bar of Lycoming County in 1827. He settled in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. In October of 1836 and 1839 he was elected a State Senator, and in 1838 he was a member of the Constitutional Convention. He also became the first President of the Lycoming Law Association which was established on January 25, 1870. He died on May 30, 1874. MEASUREMENTS: 31-1/8" x 26-1/8". Overall with frame 37-1/4" x 32-1/4". CONDITION: Craquelure throughout.. Two small chips to paint on right side, several inches above his hand. Light wear to frame, paint chipping, losses, and rubbing, mostly to lower half.