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seated half portrait of Robert Bolling IV (Virginia, 1759-1839) holding a book, typewritten label verso with sitter's name, date and age including "father of Rebecca Pocahontas Bolling", unsigned, unidentified artist, oil on mahogany panel, American, circa 1790, 29-1/4 x 24-1/4 in.; early 19th century gilt wood and composition cove molding Empire frame. Retouch at hand, above proper left shoulder and possibly on proper left eyebrow (not reflected in ultraviolet light), frame abrasions at all edges, two splits in panel (full length vertically at left and 4 in. at top into forehead); frame resurfaced, abrasions. Provenance: Property of a direct Descendant of Robert Bolling IV. Reserve: $10,000 Literature: [The Magazine Antiques,] November 1976, "Artists Working in the South, 1750-1820" by Carolyn J. Weekley, p. 1052, ill. Fig. 17 (lot accompanied by facsimile of article). *** From as early as 1660, the Bolling name has been associated with the Virginia aristocracy. Robert Bolling, Sr. had the notoriety of marrying Jane Rolfe, the granddaughter of Pocahontas. As a wealthy early American settler, planter and merchant, his legacy was firmly established with offspring including one of the greatest colonial poets, Robert Bolling III, and many United States presidents. Descended from Bolling's second marriage, Robert Bolling IV was a Revolutionary War veteran, serving in the local militia in Petersburg, Virginia. By inheritance, he had vast real estate holdings and maintained an aristocratic lifestyle as a tobacco broker. He built the Centre Hill mansion in 1823. Still standing as a museum, this residence has maintained its importance in Petersburg society and has hosted both Presidents Lincoln and Taft. A rare and important 18th century Virginia portrait, this portrait is a remarkable rendering of great personality by an unknown but highly skilled hand.
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