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Paint Box of Artist's watercolors made by G.C. Osborne

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    Posted 12 years ago

    Whimsiestu…
    (4 items)

    Artists watercolor paint box by George C. Osborne 1830- 1850?

    The dry blocks of paints and Osborne paintbox were made in Philadelphia from 1820 to possibly the 1860's The brand changed hands several times.

    We are researching the history of this company - trying to find a more exact date and history, but there is so little information available so far.

    Unsolved Mystery

    Help us close this case. Add your knowledge below.

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    Comments

    1. stefdesign stefdesign, 12 years ago
      I know nothing about this company, but WOW, this is one of the most awesome things I've ever seen on this site! Just beautiful and fascinating!
    2. walksoftly walksoftly, 12 years ago
      That is a wonderful piece, thanks for sharing it with us.
    3. Dr_Rambow Dr_Rambow, 12 years ago
      Wow! I never really liked water colors (I like thicker paints and oil pastels, personally), but this is a really neat set! How does the outside of the box look? I'd imagine just an innocuous little box that would probably be mistaken for a tool and die set or jewelery case. What a surprise!

      I live fairly close to Philadelphia, not sure who I would ask about the company though. I'm sure you could find a historical society or something that might lend a hand.
    4. Whimsiestudio Whimsiestudio, 12 years ago
      It is unusual because it is an American make but probably not too rare.
      The outside is just a plain hard wood box.

      Great idea- do you have any historical societies to suggest?

      I did contact one in the county where it was made. It was made in a pharmacy & chemical supply warehouse. but that is all that is known.

      Some of the contents are later replacements so I am looking for more of the osborne paint etc to complete the historical picture.
    5. bdeclee, 12 years ago
      I found this article on conservation which talks about the composition of the paints themselves. There is a reference section at the end which you might find helpful:
      http://cool.conservation-us.org/jaic/articles/jaic18-01-004.html

      Very nice artifact you have there!
    6. Whimsiestudio Whimsiestudio, 12 years ago
      Thanks for the reference, I see that it references other places on the bottom of that page. I will check them out.

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