HANDSOME PAIR OF 19TH-CENTURY CHROMOLITHOGRAPHIC PORTRAITS OF GEORGE AND MARTHA WASHINGTON, IN ORIGINAL OVAL GILT FRAMES

(WASHINGTON, George and Martha) MIDDLETON, E.C. Pair of framed chromolithographic portraits. Cincinnati: E.C. Middleton, 1861-62. Two portraits. Paper on canvas, oval image measures 13 by 16 inches; in original wood and plaster-gilt frame, each piece measures 19 by 22 inches. $6500.

Mid 19th-century chromolithographic portraits of George and Martha Washington, both laid on canvas, in a original gilt frames.

Cincinnati engraver Elijah C. Middleton used a unique method of lithography—printing on canvas-backed paper in oil-based inks—to produce color images of unusually high quality that were still affordable. Starting around 1861, his portraits—often of figures such as George and Martha Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Daniel Webster or General Grant—were prized not just locally, but even drew the attention of East Coast markets and competitors.

Minor expert restoration to portraits and to original frames. Extremely good condition.