Renowned American painter (1778–1860) regarded as one of the finest portrait artists of his day. Peale, one of several artist brothers named by their father after Old Masters, is best known for his multiple portraits of George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. ALS, one page, lightly-lined, 5 x 8, February 29, 1860. Letter to Brantz Mayer (1809-1879) regarding copies of a painting of Telemachus. Mayer was a prominent nineteenth-century Baltimore citizen, historian, and writer. In full: “Mr. Sully has handed me your letter requesting information concerning your Telemachus. I shall give it in a few words. Mr. Sully & Mr. King simultaneously made copies from Mr. West’s picture in London. Mr. McMurtrie became the owner of Mr. Sully’s copy & lent it to T. Birch to copy. I bought Birch’s copy & borrowed Mr. King’s to retouch it, Birch having made some variations from Sully’s, which was more neatly executed, than that by Mr. King I thought better colored. I thought my picture (now yours) combined the merits of both. I am glad you possess a picture which I have often regretted I have lost.” In 1773 Benjamin West painted Telemachus and the Nymphs of Calypso. Thomas Sully painted a well-known copy in 1810, as well as other copies, to repay those who advanced him money to go to England. Sully returned to America shortly after completing this work. In fine condition, with a mild shade of overall toning. RRAuction COA.
