(ART.) Family commonplace book featuring two landscapes by Daniel Huntington. [41] manuscript pages plus botanical samples laid in. 4to, 7¾ x 6½ inches, disbound with original gilt calf boards present; moderate edge wear. Various places, 1831-1848
The artist Daniel Huntington (1816-1906) of New York was an early member of the Hudson River School; later in his career he transitioned to historical paintings and portraiture (including President Lincoln). His 1861 painting "Lady Washington's Reception" was the basis of a popular engraving.
Among the quotations and bits of poetry in this commonplace book are two accomplished pencil landscape sketches signed "D Huntington 1838," the second one additionally inscribed "N York."
The book was apparently compiled by the artist's cousin Ann Moore Huntington (1814-1915), later Hebard. A worn and torn decorative title page bears her name. One item is dedicated "for A.M.H."; another is signed by her sister Hannah S. Huntington of Bridgewater. Several other Huntington inscriptions line up with close relatives of Ann Moore Huntington, including her father Rev. Daniel Huntington (1788-1858), who wrote the opening piece; his "D Huntington" signature differs substantially from the artist. "F.T. Huntington" is likely Ann's father's sister Faith Trumbull Huntington (1782-1838), mother of the artist. In addition to quoted verse and original inscriptions from friends and family, the album also contains numerous well-labeled botanical samples taken during a trip to Europe.
