John Francis Murphy (American, 1853–1921). <em>Autographed Letter by J. Francis Murphy</em>, December 20, 1894. Ink on paper mounted to paperboard, Sheet (letter): 8 3/4 x 5 3/4 in. (22.2 x 14.6 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Gift of Edward C. Blum, 15.518.2 (Photo: Brooklyn Museum, 15.518.2_IMLS_PS3.jpg)

Autographed Letter by J. Francis Murphy

Artist:John Francis Murphy

Medium: Ink on paper mounted to paperboard

Dates:December 20, 1894

Dimensions: Sheet (letter): 8 3/4 x 5 3/4 in. (22.2 x 14.6 cm) Sheet (paperboard): 9 5/8 x 6 3/8 in. (24.4 x 16.2 cm)

Collections:

Accession Number: 15.518.2

Image: 15.518.2_IMLS_PS3.jpg,

Catalogue Description:
The letter, which had been folded into thirds, reads as follows: The Chelsea Dec 20 1854 / Dear Mr. Mitchell / The drawings / in your little book are / finished and your friend can call now at any time / to get it I hope that the / few scratches we have made / will add a trifle to your pleasures / You have already a fine group / of autographs The book is a treat / My drawing represents an old pear tree / that I knew in New Jersey, / it used to bear half a dozen or / more of those huge winter pears. / what we boys would term as "whoppers" / They always appealed to my decorative / instincts hanging there after all the leaves had fallen / Wishing you much / success in the securing future autographs / I am yours truly / J. Francis Murphy [Drawing of pear tree, accession number 15.518.1]

Brooklyn Museum