Updated at 9:20 pm: This has been sold.
A sentimental image of George Washington courting Martha, issued by New York publisher, John C. McRae in 1860.
Here he engraved the scene of Martha Custis sitting with her two children, Martha and John Parke Custis.
"The Courtship of Washington" is considered one of McRae's most well-known works, showcasing his talent for line and stipple engraving techniques. The sentimental image provides a glimpse into the personal life of George Washington before he became a Revolutionary War hero and the nation's first president.
In a solid wood frame.
A note on condition: The buyer might consider having this conserved, which would involve reframing it and treatment to remove some of the darkening in the engraving. I sometimes invest in conservation, reframing, and non-glare, UV-protecting acrylic for glazing, but that would raise the price by at least $500. It is very possible to get this, hang it, and enjoy it as is, and now more buyers have that option, as well as the option to invest in conservation now or later.
— Lee Wright | Founder
Frame size: 23.5" x 29.5"
Shipping: $20. Please allow two weeks for shipping.
About the artist
John C. McRae was an American engraver and print publisher, born in 1816. He was active primarily in New York during the mid-19th century, with his career spanning from approximately 1850 to 1880. McRae specialized in engraving portraits and historical scenes, utilizing techniques such as line and stipple engraving.
He exhibited his work at the National Academy of Design between 1853 and 1860, showcasing his talent in the field of art and engraving. Throughout his career, McRae contributed to various publications, solidifying his reputation as a skilled engraver during a time when such artistry was essential for producing illustrations in books and periodicals. He passed away in 1892, leaving behind a legacy as a notable figure in American printmaking history