Early Graphite Folk Art Portrait, Framed long whimsy chain he in a big hat

he in a big hat

and super warm presence

with decorative brass plate around the keyhole and simple brass swinging lock cover is my favorite I've seen

these have an older Bennington mark

and title pages

Early Graphite Folk Art Portrait, Framed long whimsy chain he in a big hatI fell in love with this antique folk art graphite portrait immediately upon sight; wonderful androgynous face with great round chin, book (Bible I assume) held in lovely long fingers, and these great billowing sleeves. At first I thought perhaps a young priest, but then it looks to be a shawl draped around the shoulders, and while earrings were worn by certain men of a certain rank (or pirates!), particularly in Europe, I think this is more likely a