Up for sale is a true 19th-century American folk art oil painting. The work depicts a young, black-haired girl dressed in a white and blue lace-trimmed outfit, likely posed in a domestic setting. She is shown petting a cat with her left hand while holding a doll in the other, surrounded by a patterned floor and fringed curtains. The scene opens to a mountainous landscape beyond what appears to be a balcony or window, with a tree positioned just behind her.
The painting is signed in the lower right corner—“Nell Waters”—though the signature is slightly faded. This is my best interpretation and I'm about 85% certain in my guess.
There are no framer’s labels or markings. The wood frame, which includes an off-white inlay, appears to have once been dipped or coated and now shows age-appropriate cracking and chipping.
On the reverse side, there is handwriting: two words separated by a dash, followed by “1849.” The second word possibly reads “Weston” or “Westin,” though it is unclear.
Dimensions
Frame: 25.75” H x 17.75” W
Artwork: approx. 20” H x 12” W
Some minor chipping to the paint throughout, and areas of discoloration in the white-painted sections. Overall, excellent condition for its age.
Please note that most items on my shop are true antiques, often decades or even centuries old. With age comes character, and while I do my best to describe any notable wear, these pieces should be handled with care and appreciation for their history. I take great care in packaging every order to ensure safe shipment. All items come from a smoke- and pet-free home.
Please reach out with any questions!
