Lot 4230 email save

Edward Clay Silhouette Portrait: James O. Graham

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Historic Americana

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Edward W. Clay Silhouette Portrait Of James O. Graham

1820's, Peale Museum Hollow-Cut Silhouette Portrait by Edward Williams Clay, of James O. Graham, Choice Very Fine.
This lovely silhouette portrait, cut from white paper set against a black background, is identified by a pencil inscription made by the artist reading: "James O. Graham - J. G. 1822." The white paper from which the silhouette is cut, embossed with "Peale's Museum," measures 5" x 3.75" while the black frame, probably dating to the 1920's, measures 7.25" x 5.5" (not examined out of the frame). Written on the back in pencil at the bottom is the name Theodore Bolton. Also on the back, at the top, in pen is written: "Property of Miss Mary Clay Bolton - Mechanics and Metals Bank - 204 Fifth Avenue, New York City." There is a 1/4" margin tear on the right edge, otherwise this evenly toned portrait is in nice condition.

Theodore Bolton (1889-1977) whose name appears on the back, was an American artist and writer on art, who was especially interested in miniatures. He compiled a biographical dictionary of miniature artists and their works. This portrait was probably in the collection of Mary Clay Bolton (perhaps related to the artist), then passed to Theodore Bolton.

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