Old World Painted

OLD WORLD RESTORATIONS OF CINCINNATI UNCOVERS UNKNOWN WORK BY DUNCANSON WORTH $300,000

(CINCINNATI, OH) The dingy dirty canvas showed up at Doug Eisele’s Old World Restorations in Cincinnati in March 2009. The owner of the painting, a dentist from London, KY, had rescued the work from an obscure corner in ClaireBourne Antiques in Lexington by paying $900.  It looked like it might need to be cleaned up a bit so he took it to Old World based on its excellent reputation. 

When Eisele saw the painting he remarked, “That’s a nice painting” which turned out to be an understatement of some magnitude. He thought the work looked vaguely familiar but he couldn’t see a signature. As the cleaning progressed the letters “…son” emerged from the right corner and Eisele knew he was looking at a previously unknown work by  former Cincinnati artist and resident Robert Scott Duncanson (African-American/ Canadian 1821-1872). He immediately called the owner suggesting he insure the painting for at least $100,000 but now he feels it would actually sell in the $300,000 range.  

Eisele was familiar with Duncanson’s work having seen his eight mural works on exhibit at the Taft Museum in Cincinnati, formerly known as the Belmont, the home of Nicholas Longworth who commissioned the work in 1851. He also had previously restored several Duncanson works. Duncanson was born in Fayette, NY, the son a Scottish Canadian father and an African American mother making him a “free born person of color.” He was raised in Canada by his father to avoid racial conflicts, returning to the United States in 1841. He became a self-taught artist by copying prints and painting portraits. Seeking more commissions he set up a studio in Detroit in 1845 but returned to Cincinnati in 1846 and focused on landscapes of the Ohio River Valley inspired by works of the Hudson River School. By the early 1850s he was a recognized landscape artist. 

He became associated with the abolitionist movement in 1848 through a commission by Charles Avery, an abolitionist Methodist minister, which established him within a network of abolitionist patrons for the rest of his life. He is considered to be the first African-American to make a living selling art. 

Duncanson was noted for painting partly from real life and partly from imagination. Eisele feels this is the case with the current work. He believes the painting is a combination of the White Mountains of New Hampshire in the Hudson River School style and an unidentified European landscape. 

But before he could make that judgment Eisele had to see enough of the painting to identify it and that took the restorative skills at Old World. The first task was to remove the layers of smoke, soot, dust and dirt that had accumulated on the surface over the last 140 years. Then the original over layer of yellowed damar varnish needed to be removed. As that process evolved the green sky began to turn back to blue but it revealed that significant over painting had been done at some point during a previous restoration. When the over painting was removed, using all reversible procedures, the sky returned to its original hue. Old World’s inch by inch restoration took nearly eight weeks to complete but the result was worth the wait.  

The owner of the restored Duncnason has placed the work on long term loan to the Speed Art Museum in Louisville, KY where the chief curator, Ruth Cloudman said, “It’s a fantastical landscape. When the opportunity came up to have one of his paintings on extended loan we knew that would be very exciting.” 

Old World Restorations has been in business since 1978, specializing in conservation and restoration of paintings, frames, decorative objects and works on paper offering restoration options that range from the most basic repairs, such as simple cleaning or reassembly, to complete restorations that are invisible to the naked eye. Old World Restorations and Eisele Gallery of Fine Art are located at 5729 Dragon Way, Cincinnati, Ohio 45227, (513)271-5459, email .deisele@oldworldrestorations.com

About the Author

Since 1978, the skilled artists of Old World Restorations have been returning the original beauty to damaged and deteriorated artwork of all kinds.

Art lovers, collectors, museums, antique dealers, insurance companies, institutions and individuals worldwide trust Old World Restorations to restore and preserve their treasures, using sensitive and reversible techniques that do not alter or further harm the original artists’ work. We believe that this sensitivity and attention to detail is the hallmark of quality restoration.

Prior to beginning any work we provide a detailed inspection and cost estimate, with restoration options that range from the most basic repairs, such as simple cleaning or reassembly, to complete restorations that are invisible to the naked eye.

Slayer-Atrocity Vendor (Master Quality)

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Side Table in Old World Cherry $279 Stash away some books, display collectibles and more – this side table is an essential companion for your everyday living. It has select hardwoods, cherry veneer, Old World hand painted finish and three level storage. Raised perimeter keeps items in place. Three level side table has hardwoods, cherry veneer, Old World hand painted finish and raised perimeter. 30-inch height. Physically distressed finish on selected solid woods and choice cherry veneersCherry veneer shelves and top with raised edgesOld World Cherry finish26 in. W x 16 in. D x 29 1/4 in. H

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Old World New World $34.99 Old World New World

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Painted On $4.99 For everything you do, there’s a song that hits the spot. MOG brings them all to you: a world of music on demand, unlimited mobile downloads and ways to discover music free from the limitations of Pandora. The music you love, with you everywhere you go.

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Old World Christmas Margarita Ornament $12.95 This beautiful glass ornament was carefully mouth-blown into a finely crafted mold. Then a hot solution of liquid silver was poured inside. Finally, the ornament was delicately hand painted with many bright lacquers and glitters for you to enjoy! Brand: Old World Christmas Type: Ornaments Color: Multi-Color

Old World Christmas Christmas Goose $13.95 This beautiful glass ornament was carefully mouth-blown into a finely crafted mold. Then a hot solution of liquid silver was poured inside. Finally, the ornament was delicately hand painted with many bright lacquers and glitters for you to enjoy! Brand: Old World Christmas Type: Ornaments Color: Multi-Color

Old World Christmas Glass Ornament $8.95 This beautiful glass ornament was carefully mouth-blown into a finely crafted mold. Then a hot solution of liquid silver was poured inside. Finally, the ornament was delicately hand painted with many bright lacquers and glitters for you to enjoy! Measures 3 inches. Brand: Old World Christmas Type: Ornaments Color: Yellow ColorMapping: Multi-Color

Old World Christmas Pretzel Ornament $10.95 This beautiful glass ornament was carefully mouth-blown into a finely crafted mold. Then a hot solution of liquid silver was poured inside. Finally, the ornament was delicately hand painted with many bright lacquers and glitters for you to enjoy! 3″ Brand: Old World Christmas Type: Ornaments Color: Multi-Color

Old World Christmas Pelican Ornament $10.99 This beautiful glass ornament was carefully mouth-blown into a finely crafted mold. Then a hot solution of liquid silver was poured inside. Finally, the ornament was delicately hand painted with many bright lacquers and glitters for you to enjoy! 3 1/4″ Tall Brand: Old World Christmas Type: Ornaments Color: Multi-Color

Old World Christmas Ornament – Lobster $10.99 This beautiful glass ornament was carefully mouth-blown into a finely crafted mold. Then a hot solution of liquid silver was poured inside. Finally, the ornament was delicately hand painted with many bright lacquers and glitters for you to enjoy! 3 3/4″ Tall Brand: Old World Christmas Type: Ornaments Color: Multi-Color

Old World Christmas Parakeet Ornament $11.95 This beautiful glass ornament was carefully mouth-blown into a finely crafted mold. Then a hot solution of liquid silver was poured inside. Finally, the ornament was delicately hand painted with many bright lacquers and glitters for you to enjoy! 6″ Tall Brand: Old World Christmas Type: Ornaments Color: Multi-Color

Old World Christmas Taco Ornament $11.95 This beautiful glass ornament was carefully mouth-blown into a finely crafted mold. Then a hot solution of liquid silver was poured inside. Finally, the ornament was delicately hand painted with many bright lacquers and glitters for you to enjoy! 2″ Brand: Old World Christmas Type: Ornaments Color: Multi-Color

Old World Christmas Wizard Ornament $10.5 This beautiful glass ornament was carefully mouth-blown into a finely crafted mold. Then a hot solution of liquid silver was poured inside. Finally, the ornament was delicately hand painted with many bright lacquers and glitters for you to enjoy! Brand: Old World Christmas Type: Ornaments Color: Multi-Color

Old World Christmas Skunk Ornament $12.95 This beautiful glass ornament was carefully mouth-blown into a finely crafted mold. Then a hot solution of liquid silver was poured inside. Finally, the ornament was delicately hand painted with many bright lacquers and glitters for you to enjoy! 3″ Tall Brand: Old World Christmas Type: Ornaments Color: Multi-Color

Old World Christmas Airplane Ornament $12.95 This beautiful glass ornament was carefully mouth-blown into a finely crafted mold. Then a hot solution of liquid silver was poured inside. Finally, the ornament was delicately hand painted with many bright lacquers and glitters for you to enjoy! 2″ Brand: Old World Christmas Type: Ornaments Color: Multi-Color

Old World Christmas Hummingbird Ornament $13.95 This beautiful glass ornament was carefully mouth-blown into a finely crafted mold. Then a hot solution of liquid silver was poured inside. Finally, the ornament was delicately hand painted with many bright lacquers and glitters for you to enjoy! 4″ Tall Brand: Old World Christmas Type: Ornaments Color: Multi-Color

Old World Christmas Panda Ornament $14.95 This beautiful glass ornament was carefully mouth-blown into a finely crafted mold. Then a hot solution of liquid silver was poured inside. Finally, the ornament was delicately hand painted with many bright lacquers and glitters for you to enjoy! 3 3/4″ Tall Brand: Old World Christmas Type: Ornaments Color: Multi-Color

Old World Christmas Campfire Ornament $12.95 This beautiful glass ornament was carefully mouth-blown into a finely crafted mold. Then a hot solution of liquid silver was poured inside. Finally, the ornament was delicately hand painted with many bright lacquers and glitters for you to enjoy! Brand: Old World Christmas Type: Ornaments Color: Multi-Color

Old World Christmas Ornament – Schnauzer $11.95 This beautiful glass ornament was carefully mouth-blown into a finely crafted mold. Then a hot solution of liquid silver was poured inside. Finally, the ornament was delicately hand painted with many bright lacquers and glitters for you to enjoy! 3 1/2″ Tall Brand: Old World Christmas Type: Ornaments Color: Multi-Color

Old World Christmas Ornament – Barbeque $12.75 This beautiful glass ornament was carefully mouth-blown into a finely crafted mold. Then a hot solution of liquid silver was poured inside. Finally, the ornament was delicately hand painted with many bright lacquers and glitters for you to enjoy! Brand: Old World Christmas Type: Ornaments Color: Multi-Color

Old World Christmas Cherries Ornament $10.95 This beautiful glass ornament was carefully mouth-blown into a finely crafted mold. Then a hot solution of liquid silver was poured inside. Finally, the ornament was delicately hand painted with many bright lacquers and glitters for you to enjoy! Brand: Old World Christmas Type: Ornaments Color: Multi-Color

Old World Christmas Diploma Ornament $12.95 This beautiful glass ornament was carefully mouth-blown into a finely crafted mold. Then a hot solution of liquid silver was poured inside. Finally, the ornament was delicately hand painted with many bright lacquers and glitters for you to enjoy! 3″ Tall Brand: Old World Christmas Type: Ornaments Color: Multi-Color

Old World Christmas Peach Ornament $11.95 This beautiful glass ornament was carefully mouth-blown into a finely crafted mold. Then a hot solution of liquid silver was poured inside. Finally, the ornament was delicately hand painted with many bright lacquers and glitters for you to enjoy! Brand: Old World Christmas Type: Ornaments Color: Multi-Color

Old World Christmas Yorkie Ornament $12.95 This beautiful glass ornament was carefully mouth-blown into a finely crafted mold. Then a hot solution of liquid silver was poured inside. Finally, the ornament was delicately hand painted with many bright lacquers and glitters for you to enjoy! 2 1/2″ Tall Brand: Old World Christmas Type: Ornaments Color: Multi-Color

Hand Painted Shell Box $497 The Castilian Accessories collection features eclectic designs that are inspired by everything from traditional Chinese animal and floral motifs to more contemporary influences, each piece is hand painted and hand carved in the finest tradition of Old World craftsmanship. Made from the highest quality crystal, glass, porcelain, wood, brass, and silver, this exquisite collection offers treasures that will complement any decor. -Shell box in natural finish has hand painted crabs inside of hinged lid

1602243 Artist Originals Old World Floral Console $1299 This stately chest imbued with Old World charm features elegantly-carved cabriole legs scalloped carving across the front brass-finished hardware and a sophisticated hand-painted Old World Floral finish Providing abundant storage and adjustableshelve…

Artists Originals Old World Floral Console Chest $1508 This stately Chest, imbued with Old World charm, features elegantly carved cabriole legs, scalloped carving across the front, brass-finished hardware, and a sophisticated, hand-painted Old World Floral finish. Providing abundant storage, the piece is crafted from poplar solids, cherry veneer and wood products.

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Old World Christmas Taxi Ornament $11.95 This beautiful glass ornament was carefully mouth-blown into a finely crafted mold. Then a hot solution of liquid silver was poured inside. Finally, the ornament was delicately hand painted with many bright lacquers and glitters for you to enjoy! Multiple items shown. Each sold separately. 4″ Brand: Old World Christmas Type: Ornaments Color: Multi-Color

Old World Christmas Ornament – Gecko $9 This beautiful glass ornament was carefully mouth-blown into a finely crafted mold. Then a hot solution of liquid silver was poured inside. Finally, the ornament was delicately hand painted with many bright lacquers and glitters for you to enjoy! Multiple items shown. Each sold separately. Brand: Old World Christmas Type: Ornaments Color: Multi-Color

Old World Christmas Violin Ornament $11.95 This beautiful glass ornament was carefully mouth-blown into a finely crafted mold. Then a hot solution of liquid silver was poured inside. Finally, the ornament was delicately hand painted with many bright lacquers and glitters for you to enjoy! Multiple items shown. Each sold separately. 4″ Tall Brand: Old World Christmas Type: Ornaments Color: Multi-Color

Old World Christmas Jellyfish Ornament $9.9 This beautiful glass ornament was carefully mouth-blown into a finely crafted mold. Then a hot solution of liquid silver was poured inside. Finally, the ornament was delicately hand painted with many bright lacquers and glitters for you to enjoy! Multiple Items Shown. Each Sold Separately. 4″ Tall Brand: Old World Christmas Type: Ornaments Color: Multi-Color

Old World Christmas Ornament – Angel with Cloak $15.95 Each figural glass ornament produced for The Merck Family’s Old World Christmas is hand crafted in age-old tradition using the same techniques that originated in the 1800′s. Molten glass is mouth-blown into finely carved molds available only to the Merck Family’s Old World Christmas, before a hot solution of liquid silver is poured inside. The ornaments are then hand-painted and glittered in a series of labor-intensive steps to achieve the beautiful creations. Brand: Old World Christmas Type: Ornaments Color: Multi-Color