Portrait of Children, 19th C.
An exceptionally rare and fine portrait of two children, possibly twins, in pencil and charcoal, dated August 1855. While the artist is unknown, he has captured the astonishingly innocent expressions of two very young children, probably Northeastern United States, sitting for their portraits, with the boy on the right reaching for a toy in the hand of the girl on the left, most likely his sister. They are both seated in a wooden bench attired in clothing very typical of the period. The work is on paper.
Condition is generally very good but we note a few flaws related to age, and have photographed them. The flaws are small foxing or age spots on the paper, most of which are at the edges and not disruptive of the visual integrity of the portrait with the notable exception of the black spot on the boy's forehead - a treatable condition - which is overwhelmed by his beautiful blue eyes. There is a bit of overhead reflection in the first photo.
While we see paintings from time to time of these children, it is quite rare to find sketches which survive in the very good condition of this portrait. It is most unusual to find a pair sitting. We congratulate in advance the discerning collector who chooses to buy this fine portrait.