A Fine and Rare
Family Record

Massachusetts
probably Boston area

signed lower right by the artist, Thomas Johnston, dated 1810. 

Watercolor and ink on laid paper.

Compositionally rich, embellished with intricate borders, highlighted by the beautiful panel showing what is likely the family home, supporting roundels celebrating the marriage of Samuel Tenny (b. 1764) and Elizabeth Merrill (b. 1766) and the birth dates of their children. Research indicates that they were a Massachusetts family.

The artist, Thomas Johnston, was likely the grandson of famed colonial craftsman Thomas Johnston (1708-1767--an ornamental painter to the elite of Boston--a decorator, japanner, engraver, painter of coats of arms, and much more). His children worked in his shop and learned his skills, passing those learnings to their children.

Terrific condition. Light toning. Long ago glued down to card and period frame backboard replaced. Frame probably original, frame size about 13 ½ inches x 11 ½. Long time Maine collection from Pam Boynton.   .