Portrait Miniature
of Julia Forbes
Attributed to
JA (Jane Anthony) Davis
Dated 1837.   

Northeast, Probably New Hampshire, Rhode Island, or Connecticut. Watercolor on wove paper. This portrait is among Davis' earliest works, since most by her were 1839-1845.

Signed in script on the bottom: “Mifs Julia Forbes”. Note the long ‘S’ still present well after the 18th century. Jane Anthony Davis typically rendered family and friends in a distinctive and readily identifiable style that we see with Miss Julia: black dress, full-face angled a bit to the right (not in profile) and mid-length. The lack of proper linear perspective of her tiny hand and stylized arm amplifies the desirable folky nature.

Fine molded and black painted period frame that is probably original. Frame size about about 8 x 6 3/4 inches; site size 5 3/4 x 4 1/4. Excellent condition with professional repair of two tiny tears.

From a superb Connecticut collection. Reference: See "Three New England Watercolor Painters" pp 42-55 for other portraits by Davis.