The Volante at Habana

DatePossibly 1835-1840

Attributed to Nicolino Vicomte Calyo (1799 - 1884)

OriginAmerica, New York or Pennsylvania (probably)

MediumWatercolor and ink on wove paper

DimensionsPrimary Support: 9 3/8 x 12 3/8in. (23.8 x 31.4cm) and Framed: 10 3/16 x 14 3/8in.

Credit LineGift of Abby Aldrich Rockefeller

Object number1931.301.10

DescriptionA depiction of a dark brown horse pulling an open two-wheeled chaise or cart, a dark-skinned man riding the horse postillion. The rider wears a scarlet coat, white breeches, and a black top hat. The chaise is painted green with yellow pin-striping, and it bears two women wearing white dresses and carrying fans.
The 3/4-inch gilded and molded cyma recta frame is a modern addition.
InscribedInscribed in ink in script in the lower left margin is: "The Volante at Habana ---".
MarkingsA watermark in the primary support reads: "C Wise 1835".
ProvenanceFound in New York, NY; Edith Gregor Halpert, Downtown Gallery, New York, NY; on 10 July 1931, bought from Halpert by Mrs. John D. Rockefeller, Jr., by whom given to CWF.