Offered here is a rare mid-19th century signed note by listed American artist Jeremiah “Jeremy” Wilson (1824–1899), directly referencing the transfer of a commissioned portrait.
The note reads in full:
**“D. Meyer Esq—
Please let D. D. Kent Esq.
have the portrait of Col. Cummins and
oblige yours
Jeremy Wilson
artist”**
This is not simply an autograph—it is a working studio instruction note tied to an actual portrait commission.
Jeremiah Wilson was an active American portrait and landscape painter, exhibiting at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) and working in Philadelphia and later Harrisburg during the mid-19th century. His work reflects the tradition of regional portraiture during a period when painted likenesses were a primary means of preserving identity and legacy.
This note documents:
Such documents are rare survivals of the business and logistical side of 19th-century portrait commissions.
Jeremiah (Jeremy) Wilson (1824–1899)
American painter known for portraits, figures, and landscapes. Exhibited at PAFA and worked primarily in Pennsylvania. His surviving works and records place him firmly within the circle of mid-19th century American artists.
Col. Cummins
The subject of the portrait. While not definitively identified, the use of the title “Colonel” suggests a man of military or social prominence, likely within the Pennsylvania region.
D. Meyer, Esq.
Likely a 19th-century attorney or gentleman of standing, acting as intermediary or custodian of the portrait prior to transfer.
D. D. Kent, Esq.
Likely the recipient of the portrait, possibly the commissioner, legal representative, or family associate connected to Col. Cummins.
This type of material appeals to:
(See photos for full condition details)
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A scarce and intriguing piece of American art history ephemera, offering a tangible connection to a working 19th-century portrait painter and a now-unlocated commissioned work.