George Henry Swords (ca. 1810-after 1880)

ca. 1845

Oil on canvas

Overall: 30 x 24 3/4 in. ( 76.2 x 62.9 cm )

Gift of Mrs. William Voorhis Swords

1952.347

The subject was the son of Thomas Swords (ca. 1764-1843), bookseller and printer, and Mary (White) Swords of New York. By 1835 he was established as a merchant, his business being described by the New York City Directory as "hardware & patentee of porcelain door furniture, and agent for A. Meneely's bell foundry, Troy, N.Y." An inscription states that this portrait was exhibited at the Crystal Palace [New York, 1853], but this cannot be confirmed.

Markingsinscription: on back: "George Henry Swords / son of / Thomas Swords / Painted 1845 / Age about / 35 years -Exhibited at / Crystal Palace"

ClassificationsPAINTINGS