This is an oil on canvas, American, portrait of Mr. Paul Beck ( 1760-1844) from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He was a benefactor of the Deaf and Dumb Institute of Philadelphia, President of the American Sunday School Union, A Founder of the Philadelphia Academy of Fine Arts and for some years Postmaster. It was through his influence that the Delaware and Chesapeake Canal was constructed.
This painting is unsigned. An identical painting is in the collections of the Philadelphia Museum of Fine Arts. You may view this painting in the collections of The Philadelphia Museum of Fine Arts by going to their website and searching for Paul Beck. We believe Mr. Beck had at least two portraits, identical, painted for him and his family. It was common at the time to give portraits to your children. His daughter, Susannah P. Beck, born November 10,1786, married Daniel Lammot on May 15, 1806. One of their daughters , Margaretta Elizabeth married Alfred Victor du Pont, another, Mary Augusta married Thomas Hounsfield. The oil on canvas is 22 inches high X 16 inches wide. The painting has been relined.
If you are so inclined I have had a discussion with The Philadelphia Academy of Fine Arts and they would be very pleased to accept this painting, of one of their founders, as a donation to the school. Please discuss with your accountant the relevant tax deduction for this donation.
Packing for this piece will be done by professionals at a cost of 150 dollars. We make no money on shipping and handling. UPS will handle the shipping as it will be too large once packed for the United States Post Office. The shipping charges will be based upon your location. Please ignore ebay estimates for shipping. They are only estimates. If you require insurance the cost is 2.50 per one hundred dollars of insurance. IF YOU ARE UNHAPPY WITH YOUR PURCHASE, SIMPLY RETURN IT.