SOUTHERN SCHOOL (19TH CENTURY) PORTRAIT OF WILLIAM MAY WIGHTMAN (CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA, 1808-1882), oil on canvas, figure seated on a Classical carved mahogany sofa covered in red upholstery with brass tack edging, no signature located, retains a typed copy of the sitter's obituary published in the "Richmond Christian Advocate", February 23, 1882, p. 2. Housed in an old molded-wood frame. Circa 1835. 25" x 30" sight, 34 1/2" x 29 1/2" OA.
Painting in good visual condition with minor areas of discoloration, minute surface loss upper edge. Frame with minor wear.
Catalogue Note: William May Wightman was an important Methodist advocate, preacher, and eventual Bishop. Born in Charleston, South Carolina, Wightman converted to Methodism at a camp meeting at the age of seventeen, beginning what would become a life-long journey in faith. After his graduation from Charleston College, Wightman worked as a "swamp preacher" before returning to his native city. Thereafter, his career path ran far and wide and included stints as Professor of English at Randolph-Macon College, President of Wofford College, and Chancellor of Southern University in Greensboro, Alabama.

Painting in good visual condition with minor areas of discoloration, minute surface loss upper edge. Frame with minor wear.