Virtual Watercolor Museum Main Entrance   updated Dec 19 2011

Osborne American Made Artists watercolor paint box c. 1830-1850 not for sale

American Made Artists watercolor paint box by George C. Osborne 1830- 1850   Osborne was was one of the few 19th century American makers of artists paint. Many artists of the time believed the especially clear paint colors by Osborne to be equal or better to any made in Europe.   The paints for an Osborne paintbox were made by Smith & Hodgson which later became the Bullock & Crenshaw's Drug and chemical store, in Philadelphia from 1820 to possibly the 1860's Above is the trade card saying "OSBORNE'S SUPERFINE AMERICAN WATER COLORS, WARRANTED EQUAL TO ANY IMPORTED" The rest of the label are testimonials   Their boxes were available in Mahogany or Rosewood in sets of up to 72 colors. This one is possibly rosewood.       The inside of the box is lined with an interesting marbled paper.       Below are more American made watercolor blocks from the 19th century By A.P. Homer - Philadelphia.           WANTED: Historical information on American Art Supply Makers Especially G.C. Osborne and A. P. Homer shown above. We are also looking to complete our educational collection through the aquisiton of early American Paint , pallets, or paint boxes especially with the Osborne.

 

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