August Americana
Description:
Carved Tobacconist Indian Maiden Figure with Child, James Brown, late 19th century, the maiden with raised left arm holding a bundle of cigars and right arm cradling more, lettering incised into the child's back and highlighted in red reads: "James Brown/717 Sansom St/Phila 1887.," ht. 58 1/2 in.
Provenance: Joan Brownstein Antiques, August, 12, 2010.
Note: In Artists in Wood, Frederick Fried notes that "James Brown was also carving garden ornaments, steamboat eagles, figures, church ornaments... and cigar store Indians" and that he is listed in Philadelphia directories.
The Arthur & Sybil Kern Collection of American Folk Art
Estimate $3,000-5,000
The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email (lot inquiry button) or by telephone to the appropriate gallery location (Boston/617.350.5400 or Marlborough/508.970.3000). Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner Inc. shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.
Keywords
James Brown, Frederick Fried, Joan Brownstein Antiques, Sybil Kern, PhiladelphiaStephen L. Fletcher
Partner/Executive Vice President and Chief Auctioneer
Director of American Furniture & Decorative Arts
508-970-3000
Christopher D. Fox
Vice President
Director, Historic Arms & Militaria
Associate Deputy Director, American Furniture & Decorative Arts
508-970-3200
Paul O’Hara
Business Administrator, American Furniture & Decorative Arts
508-970-3224
American Furniture & Decorative Arts
From the heart of New England, the American Furniture & Decorative Arts department regularly uncovers treasures with rich and enduring history and hosts auctions to world-wide renown.