Oil on canvas (lined), circa 1835-1840 unsigned, housed in later gilt and ebonized frame.

DOA 36 x 30 in.

Estate of the late Lynn Fisher, Raleigh, NC

By descent through the family of William Wallace Adam's daughter, Mary Adam Henderson (1844-1907), Alexandria, VA
Sam Tarlton, Raleigh, NC (acquired circa 1980)

Published:
Hollan, Catherine B. Virginia Silversmiths, Jewelers, Clock- and Watchmakers, 1607-1860, Their Lives and Marks. McLean, VA, Hollan Press, 2010.

This painting descended in the family of William Wallace Adam's daughter, Mary Adam Henderson, and has long been identified as a portrait of the silversmith by his father, John Adam. The sitter is depicted three-quarter length in a dress coat. William's father, John Adam, was described in the family as a "painter of merit" and was friends with the artist Thomas Sully. Despite his painterly talents, John Adam is best known for his extensive silver production. He maintained a shop briefly in Georgetown before establishing a shop in Alexandria, VA. His son, William (1817-1877), succeeded his father's shop in 1848 and continued in the business until his death in 1877.

The self portrait of his father, John Adam, is offered in this sale as lot 365.

Stable craquelure; some minor light surface scratches.

$1,000 - 3,000