Marcus Mote on Antiques Roadshow

Last Sunday PBS's "Antique Road Show" began their 16th season with a show from Tulsa, OK.  That show featured a painting of two twin boys by noted 19th century Ohio artist, Marcus Mote.

Monday we received an email from a gentleman who thought he might have a Marcus Mote painting.  He sent us an email of the painting high lighting the signature and we were able to disclaim it as a Marcus Mote. Below is a picture of Marcus Mote's signature on a still life painting of grapes.

An authentic signature by Marcus Mote

Marcus Mote was born into a Quaker family in 1817 near Waynesville, OH. He was a self taught artist who, as a child, made his own paints and drawing materials from charcoal and natural plant dyes.  His local Quaker Meeting did not believe in drawing and painting and threatened to kick Marcus out of their church. Fortunately his family was able to convince the church of their son's God given talent and his art career blossomed.

The Warren County History Center has an excellent collection of Marcus Mote paintings, including some of his best portraits.  Glendower Historic Mansion also exhibits several Marcus Mote paintings including a beautiful portrait of Thomas Corwin's daughter Evelyn Corwin Sage (pictured below)