Antique 19thC Folk Art Watercolor Portrait Gentleman Minister Scholar Book 9×7. Up for sale is a fascinating original 19th-century folk art portrait painting depicting a formally dressed gentleman holding a book – likely a minister, scholar, or professional of the mid-to-late Victorian era. This appears to be a true hand-painted piece, featuring translucent watercolor or ink washes layered directly onto unprimed paperboard. The close-up details showcase a beautiful, distinctive feature where the original pigment has bled naturally over the decades into the raw fibers of the backing board. The subject sports a classic mid-19th-century chinstrap beard, high white collar, black waistcoat, and matching dark coat, set against an artist backdrop featuring foliage on one side and a formal interior on the other. Measures 9″ long x 7″ wide. A wonderful addition to any Americana, folk art, or historic portrait collection! CONDITION : This piece is an authentic antique and shows significant signs of age and wear. The back of the heavy cardboard mount shows generalized yellowing, foxing, and remnants from a previous framing. The central portrait area remains vivid and clear. Please see photos for additional details. Antique and vintage items typically have wear associated with years of age and use which adds to their charm. Please see all photos as they are considered part of the description. SATISFACTION GUARANTEED : I want my customers to be happy and enjoy these “worthy relics”. I will always do my best to make things right. Thank you for viewing and supporting a small business!