Artists' Boxes of the Early Nineteenth Century

Abstract

The equipment of the itinerant decorative painter of mid-18th century colonial America is described. By the 19th century watercolor painting was popular as a hobby; drawing academies and masters were in vogue. Archibald Robertson's specifications for basic equipment were influential. Both imported English boxes and personally fitted boxes survive with samples of watercolors still identifiable. Books of the period which were used for instruction are cited.