Randi Ona
       Early American Antiques

Rare, early 19th century hollow-cut and watercolor silhouette of a gentlemen, ca. 1820-1830. His head is hollow-cut and in profile, with inked hair. His body, in contrast to his head, faces front. His period clothes are in watercolor, with a short coat with gently curved bright blue lapels, a high collared shirt, and cravat.  He is posed in a brightly colored yellow “fancy chair”.  He is identified on the back as “Hiram Gates”. A genealogical search uncovered several members of the Gates family in Centre County, PA, with Hiram listed as one of them.  Original, period molded frame.  The body of the silhouette is in very fine condition and the colors remain vibrant. There is a small area of discoloration in the upper right corner; a crease on the lower left that transects his right arm.  Dimensions:  sight 3.5” x 4 3/8”; frame 5” x 5.75”.