Ink/Tempera and Graphite Portrait of Presumed African American Young Man John wayne keeping an eye on things

keeping an eye on things

but I think I can get it to flatten out pretty well

enhanced by strips of darker wood

looking like a shy but friendly guy standing in the corner of the room

19th century and I believe the chips are likely French

Ink/Tempera and Graphite Portrait of Presumed African American Young Man John wayne keeping an eye on thingsI would guess this sensitive portrait dates to the mid 19th century or so, and appears to be executed in a combination of graphite and ink, with the white looking perhaps to be tempera paint. I take him to be African American, and a very handsome young man, and find in his face a combination of vulnerability and determination that feels very tender and true. Lovely. 6 1 8" x 4 3 8". On card. A bit of paint loss and scattered scuffs and smudges, all to