Description:
Thomas Sully (American, 1783-1872)
Study for Frances Anne Kemble as Isabella in "Measure for Measure"
Initialed "TS" l.c., signed "Painted by/T Sully." on the reverse.
Oil on panel, 12 x 10 1/2 in. (30.3 x 26.5 cm),framed.
Condition: The work is double sided, the reverse bearing a scene in grisaille of two men in Elizabethan costume in a cave-like setting; scattered retouch, fine craquelure, minor surface imperfections.
N.B. The painting is listed in The Life and Works of Thomas Sully, by Edward Biddle and Mantle Fielding (Philadelphia: Wickersham Press, 1921),p. 362, as No. 2348 "Isabella" (Shakespeare illustration) From "Measure for Measure." The owner at the time of publishing was Francis Fisher Kane of Philadelphia. The authors note that this was a study for a larger painting on canvas (36 1/4 x 28 3/8 in.),dated 1836, in the collection of the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts. The finished painting was also engraved by John Cheney (1801-1885) in 1840.
The lot is accompanied by a copy of the above referenced book, part of the limited edition of 500, inscribed as no. 470 above the signatures of the authors. Several of the pages are uncut.
Estimate $2,500-3,500
Small dots of retouch numbering about 6 in the sitter's face, on the bridge of the nose, the cheek, and on the chin. Multiple dots in the u.l. corner with scattered dots in the u.r. and l.l. corners. The work has been cleaned around the monogram and the monogram may possibly be partially reinforced.
The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email (lot inquiry button) or by telephone to the appropriate gallery location (Boston/617.350.5400 or Marlborough/508.970.3000). Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner Inc. shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.
Keywords
John Cheney, Francis Fisher Kane, Frances Anne Kemble, Edward Biddle, Mantle Fielding, PhiladelphiaStephen L. Fletcher
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American & European Works of Art
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