James Stevenson Craig (British, fl. 1854-1870), The Suspected Love Letter

Oil on canvas, 1858, signed with the artist's monogram at center left, inscribed to the verso, presented in the likely original gilt composition frame.

Stretcher size 22 1/4 x 18 in.; Frame dimensions 30 1/2 x 26 in.

Private Collection, Charlottesville, Virginia

Scottish-born painter James Stevenson Craig specialized in literary and historical subjects, often drawing inspiration from Scottish ballads, poetry, and the writings of Sir Walter Scott. Though little is known about his early life, he later lived and worked in London, where he married Hannah Smith in 1858. The couple settled in Camden and raised a family there while Craig pursued his artistic career.

Impact crackle in upper right corner; stable minor craquelure; faint stretcher marks; minor chipping and rubbing to frame.

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