Late 19th Century Oil Portrait of a Gentleman

A striking late 19th century oil on canvas portrait of a young gentleman, presented in its wonderfully worn painted wood frame.

The sitter is particularly handsome and beautifully composed, formally dressed in a dark coat with a high white collar and tie. Small details add to the portrait — a gold pocket watch chain, wedding band and carefully tailored clothing speak quietly to the gentleman's position and prosperity.

Unsigned and unidentified, the portrait retains a little mystery. An old handwritten fragment attached to the reverse of the frame appears to read "Cherry Hill…", although no further provenance or identifying information has been found.

The painting has been re-stretched onto a later ANCO BILT stretcher. Original tack holes remain visible along the edges of the canvas from its earlier mounting.

Condition is consistent with age and history. There is a small puncture to the canvas near the sitter's hand, along with an old patched repair visible from the reverse. There is also an area of paint loss to the white cuff at the sitter's left hand, as well as craquelure, surface wear and minor losses elsewhere. The painted wood frame has considerable age-related wear, losses and old repairs. The painting is offered as found; please review photographs carefully for condition.

A handsome antique portrait with a restrained palette and strong presence. We particularly like him for an interior where an old portrait can add character without feeling overly formal — equally at home in a traditional setting or surrounded by more contemporary pieces.

Painting: 25" W x 29.25" H
Framed: 30.75" W x 34.5" H
Medium: Oil on canvas
Date: Late 19th century
Artist: Unsigned / unknown

Why we like it

It is really the sitter who makes this one. The expression, black coat, warm background and small details of his dress give the portrait personality even though his identity has been lost to time. The worn frame and signs of age are very much part of its character.