Abraham Lincoln the Rail Splitter - Oil on Linen by Frank R. Johnson

Abraham Lincoln the Rail Splitter - Oil on Linen by Frank R. Johnson

From The Lincoln Financial Foundation Collection:
"Abraham Lincoln as a young man at work splitting rails for a fence. Lincoln is shown wearing a light colored shirt with a red bandana around his neck and dark trousers with suspenders hanging from his waist. He is wearing almost knee high boots and standing over a large log with his left foot resting on top. He is holding an ax in his right hand with the back of his left hand touching his forehead as if pushing back his hair. In the background are trees, a partially completed fence, and a log cabin. In the foreground on the viewer's left is a hat and coat and an open book all placed on the ground near the log."

This painting is after one of Lincoln found in Ferris' series, Pageant of America, painted around 1909. It has appeared in books and prints, but this version by Johnson is possibly the work of an art student, though done on linen would be unusual. It is probably contemporary with the Ferris' work.

Framed in tiger oak, it combines beautifully with the subject matter.

Dimensions (inches)
Height: 15 1/2
Width: 11 1/2

Condition
Very Good / Excellent