(19th century)

Family Group with Children Playing with a Pull Toy; A Young Boy Reaching for His Mother Through a Bat Decorated Garden Partition, both unsigned, oil on canvas, 20 x 25-1/2 in.; later matching frames, 22-1/8 x 27-1/2 in.

Note: Wilhelmine Kirby Waller was the granddaughter of Thomas Ellis Kirby, founding partner of the American Art Association, which became the first major auction house in the United States, selling over 60 million dollars worth of art during its existence from 1883-1924. Gustavus Kirby, Wilhelmine's father, was an important member of the American Olympic Committee and was involved in the AAA business with his father. Wilhelmine, a noted equestrienne, focused her pursuits on horse breeding at the successful Tanrackin Farm in Bedford, New York. She was on several Presidential Commissions focusing on conservation and the environment, as well as serving as the President of the Garden Club of America. These objects offered here were passed down through the family and Wilhelmine to the current consignor.

Provenance: Estate of Wilhelmine Kirby Waller, Bedford, New York; by descent