John Mix Stanley 1814 - 1872

Dorothy Bayles, Oak Park, IL (a descendant of the artist)
Kennedy Galleries, Inc., New York
(Sale:  Frank H. Boos Gallery, February, 1, 2001, lot 962)
Acquired from the above sale by the present owner 

Wax lined. Surface in generally good condition aside from pressed cracquelure. Surface also slightly flattened from lining and slightly thin from cleaning. A 1 1/2 inch scrape with paint loss in inscription lower right. Also a small gouge with paint loss to left of signature. Some old spots of re-touch visible in face from contour of chin up side of face and in eyes and eyebrows. Under UV: in paint 1- 1 1/2 inch in upper right quad some additional newer retouch on face and shirt. Slightly opaque varnish. Some old retouch visible on table under elbow, on elbow, also near elbow and l-shaped repaired tear about 2 by 6 in. Some old retouch at edges from frame abrasion.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Stanley is best known for his paintings of the American West, but after he moved to Detroit in 1864 and until his death in 1872, he also experimented with genre subjects.  He is known to have painted at least three such works, two of street urchins and the present painting.

We are grateful to Dr. Julie Schimmel for her help in the cataloguing of this lot.