Patricia Mertig Sprouls (American, 1921 – 2011) pen and ink illustration depicting an early 18th century home in New Jersey. Titled lower left "Ackerman Van Emburg house C. 1705, Ridgewood, NJ" and signed "Patricia M. Sprouls" lower right. Sight – x 15" H x 20 3/4" W. Overall – 26" H x 31 3/4" W. 20th century. Biography (Courtesy of the Knoxville News Sentinal): Patricia was born in the Bronx, New York City and moved to the Isle of Capri with mother and sister at the age of eight. She began her lifetime fine art career under tutelage of her mother and won a four year full scholarship to the Royal Academy of Fine Arts, Naples Italy where she was awarded "Best Foreign Art Student" of all Italy. Returning to the U.S. in 1947 and marrying in 1948 she raised her family and continued her art career. She exhibited in New Jersey and New York City. She became president of the NJ chapter of the American Artists Professional League, a member of the board of the national organization and also a member of the board of the Catherine Lorillard Wolfe Art Club. Sprouls moved to Norris, TN in 1987 where she continued her art with the local art groups, winning "Best in Show" one year in the Dogwood Art Festival. Condition: Overall very good condition. Condition: Overall very good condition.