William R. Wheeler, (American, 1832-1894) oil on canvas, portrait of a toddler with light-colored curly hair. Signed with initials, WRW and dated 1867, lower left. Period giltwood frame with scroll decorated corners. Sight: 20" H x 16" W. Frame: 28-1/2" H x 24-1/2" W. Biography: William Ruthven Wheeler was born in Scio, Michigan in 1832. He was a student of Alvan Bradish in Detroit. Wheeler moved to Connecticut about 1862 and maintained a studio there until 1893, painting portraits of many prominent Connecticut residents as well as landscapes. According to the 1879 book "Art and Artists in Connecticut," Wheeler's forte was painting children's faces. The Connecticut Historical Society mounted an exhibition of his works in 1974. Condition: Original stretcher and canvas. Painting in overall very good condition. Frame has significant cracks and has been repainted.