James Earl (1761-1796)

in what appear to be the original frames. The following inscription was copied from the back of one of the paintings prior to lining: This portrait of Frances Hortin at the age of seventeen, was painted in the year 1792, being one of twelve Family Portraits by "Earle" (sic)...

By descent in the family of the sitters to the previous owner

Christie's New York, September 22, 1993, lot 1

Original frames; heavy reflecting varnish; filled in cracquelure; alligatoring
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

James Earl was born in Paxton, Massachusetts in 1761. He was the brother of the well-known painter, Ralph Earl. After moving to London with a group of British loyalists during the American Revolutionary War, he became a student of Benjamin West and exhibited at the Royal Academy.

He returned to the United States to make his career as a portrait painter in South Carolina. He died of yellow fever in Charleston in 1796.

Works by James Earl are in the collections of the Bowdoin College Art Museum in Brunswick, Maine; the Museum of Early Decorative Arts, Winston-Salem, North Carolina; the National Portrait Gallery, Washington, D.C. and the Worcester Art Museum, Worcester, Massachusetts.