American School, 19th Century

the banner above the bridge inscribed Welcome Lafayette / A Nation's Gratitude Awaits You. The reverse with paper backing inscribed The words on the arch over the bridge are - A Nation's Gratitude awaits you. The old Doremus homestead beyond the bridge which was across the Passaic River at Bank Street. Temple Street hill beyond The sign on the Hotel pole is inscribed with the words Passaic Hotel and Washington Tavern - (His Picture between) 1824 - Mar... Pash - Artist Owned by Sidney W. Probert.

Sidney W. Probert (1865-1919), Paterson, New Jersey;
Leon F.S. Stark, Antiques, Inc., Philadelphia.

Lincroft, New Jersey, Monmouth Museum, Masterpieces of American Folk Art, September 26 - November 29, 1975.

Cipora O. Schwartz, An American Jewish Odyssey: American Religious Freedom and The Nathan Barnert Memorial Temple, (Newark, New Jersey: KTAV Publishing House, Inc., 2007), p. 9. 

Edges worn, with a tear extreme lower left at bottom and extreme lower left near tree; with some discoloration in the sky. Inscribed paper backing "Mark Post, Artist"
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.

When Lafayette visited Paterson in 1824, he was greeted with much fanfare and admiration.  He was welcomed to stay at the Passaic Hotel, which had played host to many other important men of the time, including George Washington.  The hotel likely opened around 1750.