Lot 208: Attributed to JOHN S. BLUNT (1798-1835)*

Portrait of a Woman in a Red Dress oil on canvas 33 x 27in. NOTES In 1821 John Blunt is listed in the Portsmouth, New Hampshire directory as an "Ornamental and Portrait Painter". Throughout the decade he would advertise variations of his painting trade as well as an announcement of his intention of opening a "Drawing and Painting School for the instruction of young ladies and gentlemen in the arts." In 1830, Blunt and his family left the city where he was born for Boston where the artist began to exhibit at the Boston Athenaeum. His obituary appeared in the Boston Daily Advertiser and Patriot in September 1835 as having died at sea between New Orleans and Boston. The lady depicted here is stylistically related to the body of work associated with the Blunt. Characteristics include the exaggerated fullness of her leg-of-mutton sleeves and her fashionable hairstyle. The artist's pleasure in attention to detail is evident in the fine lace watch-fob and other jewelry.