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Cat Seated on a One-Armed Rocker

Creator: H. GUILFORD
Offered by: David A. Schorsch - Eileen M. Smiles Fine Americana

Description
H. GUILFORD
Cat Seated on a One-Armed Rocker
American, 1884
Oil on artist board, 21 x 17 ½ inches, untouched condition, in original gilt frame. Signed lower right: “H. Guilford / 1884”

Combining charm of subject matter, details of setting, and quality of draftsmanship, this is a superb example of an American folk portrait of a cat. The white cat with black spots is seated on a red-draped paint-decorated “Boston-type” rocker. Testament to the artist’s attention to accuracy is the hole in the back post where the missing left arm would have been attached. The bright yellow eyes, gesturing raised paw, and spot on the nose impart personality and an air of mischief to this beloved family pet. A possible identification for the artist is Harriet Guilford, the daughter of Charles Guilford (1833–1913) and Mary Jane Guilford (1837–1904), born in the town of Cuba, Allegheny County, New York, on March 16, 1861. She married Coy Winthrop Hendryx in 1886, and by 1900, the couple was living in Dowagiac, Cass County, Michigan, where she died in 1953.

More Information

Documentation:	Signed
Origin:	United States
Period:	19th Century
Creation Date:	1884
Styles / Movements:	Folk Art
Incollect Reference #:	632065

Dimensions

W.	17.5 in;	H.	21 in;
W.	44.45 cm;	H.	53.34 cm;

Message from Seller:

David A. Schorsch and Eileen M. Smiles American Antiques is one of the world’s leading dealers and authorities in the field of American antiques and folk art, specializing in weathervanes, folk paintings, folk sculpture, formal and country furniture and Shaker design.