Lot 149: Portrait of Woman and Child with Dog, Attributed to Sheldon Peck (1797-1868),

American, ca 1836-1845, oil on canvas. Portrait from Peck's Lombard, Illinois period (post 1835) when the artist began painting in a larger format, on canvas. Female sitter on a period sofa, her arm placed affectionately around the little boy who clutches the leash of his dog. The detail of her lace bonnet and collar is typical of Peck. Unframed; 43" high x 34" wide.

Born in Cornwall, Vermont in 1797, Sheldon Peck was an itinerant and self-taught painter. Although he did not sign his work, his paintings are distinctive and easily recognized. Subjects often have piercing eyes and serious expressions. Peck had three distinct artistic periods: The Vermont period (1820-1827), The New York period (1828-1836) and the Illinois period (after 1836). While in Illinois, Peck found success as a farmer, a community leader and opened a school; he died in 1868. Black-light used. Small scattered touched-up areas. Craquelure.