After John Constable (English, 1776-1837) , "The Drinking Boy," or "The Cornfield", oil on canvas landscape painting depicting a shepherd boy drinking from a stream, while herding dogs and sheep walk along a tree-lined lane leading to a second figure in a cornfield. Housed in carved and molded gilt wood cove frame with laurel, leaf and dart, and fret running patterns. Sight - 35" H x 28" W. Framed - 44" H x 36 1/2" W. Note: The original painting by Constable hangs in the National Gallery, London. Provenance: the estate of Victor T. Patterson, Franklin, TN. Note: born in Georgia and educated at the Parsons School of Design, Victor Patterson served as a cultural representative to Russia with Dwight D. Eisenhower's "People to People" program (prior to its privatization) before moving to the Nashville, Tennessee area to pursue a career in interior design. He was associated with Bradford's for many years before starting his own business. He decorated the Tennessee Governor's Mansion and the home of several country music stars in the 1970s, and filled his home on Franklin's historic Fourth Avenue with art and antiques from his frequent travels.

Repaired tear to lower center of painting along path, approximately 12". Areas of inpainting to perimeter, mostly along left side. Yellowing to varnish to sky area. Canvas appears to have been relined. Some frame separation at joints, most noticeable in upper left corner. Wood losses on front of frame to lower left molding, 2", and two places along running fret, largest 1/2". Other scattered abrasions and losses to front, edges, and back of frame consistent with age.