Lot 468
"Examining the Flag" - Oil on Canvas by Jennie Brownscombe. 30¼ x 39¼", early 20th century, signed at lower left. Framed to 42½ x 52". Commemorating Betsy Ross's mythical presentation of the first flag to George Washington, who is seated and holds part of the flag. George Ross, Betsy's uncle and a Signer of the Declaration of Independence from Pennsylvania, stands beside Washington. Robert Morris, known as the financier of the Revolution, is seated at Washington's left and holds a lorgnette to better examine the flag. A young girl stands beside Betsy and a young woman sews by the fireplace.
Jennie Brownscombe (1850-1936) was an American painter, designer, etcher, commercial artist and illustrator. She studied at the National Academy of Design in New York City, 1878-81, 1872-75; The Art Students League of New York, 1875-78; and School of Design for Women, The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art, New York City, 1871-72. She painted genre paintings, mostly in oils and watercolor, many of revolutionary and colonial American history, including "First Thanksgiving at Plymouth." Her paintings are noted for their realistic romantic figures and beautiful color. More than 100 of her works were reproduced by etching, engraving and photograving, often appearing on calendars and in magazines. She was the Norman Rockwell of her time.
This painting was on loan to Winterthur Museum from October 2, 2010 to January 2, 2011 as part of the exhibit: "Betsy Ross. The Life Behind the Legend." 2. In 2009, it was part of a joint exhibition by the U.S. Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the U.S. Consulate General in Dubai, highlighting the history of the American flag as a national symbol. The painting has also been exhibited at the Herbert Hoover Library (2002) and at the James Michener Art Museum in Doylestown, Pennsylvania.
Some professional restoration by the Western Center for the Conservation of Fine Arts in Denver, Colorado. Details available upon request.
Buyer responsible for third party shipping. Call to make arrangements.
Estimated Value $15,000 - 25,000.
Ex. The Claude Harkins Collection of Americana; Christie's East, Jan. 12, 1999, Lot 28.
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| Realized $45,600 |
