$11,850
Robert Field, (American, born in England c. 1769-1819), Portrait Miniature of a Gentleman. Signed with initials "RF" and dated "1798" l.r. Watercolor on ivory, oval bust-length portrait, reportedly depicting a Philadelphia gentleman named Henry C. Mercken, 3 x 2 1/4 in., in an oval pendant case with an oval aperture on the back containing a gilt-foil monogram "HCM" placed over a plaited lock of brown hair. Provenance: From the estate of Owen Wister (1860-1938), who was born in Philadelphia and is considered the "father" of western fiction, then by family descent to the consignor. Ivory slightly bowed, small paint smudge on edge just above left-facing shoulder.
Auctioneer:
Skinner
Date:
2012-03-04
