John Brewster, Jr. [1776-1854]
American
Portrait of James Prince [1755-1830], ca.1801
Oil on canvas
30 x 25 inches
Signed at lower left.

Excellent condition. Antique Frame.

Dated based on similar painting of the sitter from 1801 in the collection of the Historical Society of Old Newbury.

James Prince [1755-1830] served as Collector of Customs for Newburyport. In 1800 he purchased the Tracy Mansion and later lived there for thirty years. Mr. Prince first leased the mansion to Jacob Coburn who established the Sun Hotel and advertised in the Newburyport Herald on May 26, 1807. James Prince was a successful merchant and an investor in companies involved in shipping, erecting bridges, and road-building. Mr. Prince entertained General Marquis de Lafayette in 1824. He gave a dinner for the General Lafayette that was served by Prince Stetson, owner of the Wolfe Tavern.