"Copse and Field" by George W. Waters

#8168PZ. Circa 1885. American artist who traveled to Europe. Oil on board - gold leaf and gilt frame. This handsomely framed oil painting appears to be of a rural scene with a village in the background, probably somewhere in Europe. Signed lower right. The artist, George Wattles Waters, was from a small community in New York state. He began painting at an early age, and by age 18 had one of his paintings on view at the National Academy of Design in New York City. He attended and later taught there. Although he maintained a studio in the City for many years, in 1861 he and his wife relocated to Elmira, NY, where they raised a family and he later taught at Elmira College. Although lesser-known than other artists of his day, he had many influential clients - including Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain) - and did a commissioned portrait of Walt Whitman. He traveled to Europe twice, in 1880 and 1886, and while there is known to have done pencil sketches from which he created oil paintings upon his return. This appears to be one such example. He retired from Elmira College in 1903, at age 71, but continued to paint until his death in 1912. Additional information on the artist is available. Very good condition - restored within last 20 years. Height: 27.75" (frame), Width: 41.25" (frame). $4,200.00.