George Washington Nicholson was born in Salem County, New Jersey in 1832 and died in Hammonton, New Jersey in 1912. He spent much of his life without recognition. Recently there has been new interest in his work. Many of his paintings, fine examples of American art, have not been located; the artist had a penchant for giving them away. Fortunately, however, he signed and dated most of his paintings.
He painted historical scenes, landscape and an occasional still life. In France, he studied with Isabey, who may have influenced his landscape technique. His landscapes were regularly exhibited at the Haseltine Art Galleries. Nicholson also exhibited at the N.A.D, A.I.C and P.A.F.A.
Although he lived and worked quietly, Nicholson had admirers. The art dealer Deschonde visited him on a regular basis purchasing paintings for his museum in Chester, Penn.
Listed:
E. Benezit
American Art Analogue
Who's Who in American Art
Art Institute of Chicago Annual Exh. Records
Penn. Academy of Fine Art Exh. Records, 1807-1870
Exhibition Records of the National Academy of Design
Dictionary of Artists, Graves
Biography courtesy of Roughton Galleries, www.antiquesandfineart.com/roughton
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