Object ID	N0146.1977
Title	James Fenimore Cooper (1789-1851)
Artist	Jarvis, John Wesley
Object Name	Painting
Early Date	1822
Exhibit label line3	One of the most striking portraits of James Fenimore Cooper (1789-1851), this was Susan Augusta DeLancey Cooper's favorite image of her husband. Painted in New York City in 1822, it depicts Cooper just before the success of The Spy established him as one of America's leading authors. During the first quarter of the 19th century, John Wesley Jarvis painted many of New York's intellectuals. By 1822, he was at the height of his artistic expertise and was considered the foremost portrait painter in New York City. Said to be the best storyteller of his generation, the eccentric and comedic Jarvis was an early member of Cooper's famous Bread and Cheese Club. Their friendship may have inspired this portrait's commission.
Description	Marks: Inscribed on reverse of canvas: "Portrait of/James Fenimore Cooper/Jarvis Pinxit 1822."
Classification	Academic Art--Painting/Drawing--Portraits--Human
Dimensions	H-30 W-25 inches
Material	Oil on canvas

Prior written permission is required for any reproduction, redistribution, publication, or other use of the images in any media, including but not limited to, printed or electronic media. Contact the Office of the Registrar, New York State Historical Association, PO Box 800, Cooperstown, NY 13326, (607) 547-1444, to request permission.    
Last modified on: November 04, 2005