John F. Francis (American, 1808 – 1886) oil on board still life with apple and peonies in a glass. Signed “J. F. Francis” en verso, with old collectors label. Housed in an antique, possibly original carved giltwood frame. Sight – 6″ H x 4 5/8″ W. Framed – 11 1/8″ H x 9 3/4″ W. 19th century. John F. Francis (American, 1808 – 1886) oil on board still life with apple and peonies in a glass. Signed “J. F. Francis” en verso, with old collectors label. Housed in an antique, possibly original carved giltwood frame. Sight – 6″ H x 4 5/8″ W. Framed – 11 1/8″ H x 9 3/4″ W. 19th century. Biography (courtesy Askart: The Artists’ Bluebook): Philadelphia-born John Francis was a key artist in the mid 19th century revival of still life painting in America, but he was largely self taught and began his career as an itinerant portrait and silhouette painter. He exhibited at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts from 1840 to 1858 and spent about 25 years traveling and painting in Pennsylvania, Delaware, Washington, DC and Tennessee. About 1850 he turned exclusively to still life subjects, focusing mainly on “luncheon” or “dessert” foods. Condition: Vertical split to board, right margin. Scattered losses to frame. Condition: Vertical split to board, right margin. Scattered losses to frame.