That’s Two Demeritts! Two!

My Pick of the Week for the upcoming January 14–15–16, 2026 Americana Sale at Pook & Pook Auction in Downingtown, Pennsylvania, is a superb ink and watercolor double portrait by Joseph H. Davis (American, 1811–1865).

This finely rendered 1836 portrait depicts Thomas and Sally Demeritt of Northwood, New Hampshire, and exemplifies Davis’s distinctive, delicately detailed style. Measuring 10″ x 14″ (frame: 13 1/2″ x 17 1/2″), the work is an exceptional example of his ability to capture both likeness and character through spare yet elegant composition.

This painting is among Davis’s most thoroughly documented works, having been featured in multiple significant publications and exhibitions, including:

• The Magazine Antiques, October 1943 (Frank O. Spinney, “Joseph H. Davis, New Hampshire Artist of the 1830s,” no. B-6)
• Three New England Watercolor Painters, The Art Institute of Chicago exhibition catalog, 1974, no. 25
• The Magazine Antiques, September 1982 (Susan Klein et al., “Living with Antiques,” p. 512, fig. 1)
• The Clarion, Museum of American Folk Art, Summer 1989 (Arthur and Sybil Kern, “Joseph H. Davis: Identity Established,” p. 49)

Its distinguished provenance further underscores its importance, having passed through notable collections, including those of Mrs. Albert Boni, Betty Sterling (Randolph, Vermont), Ralph Esmerian (New York), David A. Schorsch, Inc. (Greenwich, Connecticut), Barry Cohen (New York), and again David A. Schorsch (1994).

A remarkable example of Davis’s artistry, this portrait is a standout offering in an already exceptional sale.

by: Jamie Shearer

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joseph_H._Davis_(painter)