Old Stone House, Stoneridge, New York

This is a unique work of art that bridges conventional easel painting and tile making. Original hand decoration on ceramics, termed “China painting” in the nineteenth century, was practiced both by professional artisans such as Mitchell and by amateur hobbyists. The notion of hobbies was born in the late nineteenth century as the growing prosperity of the middle class allowed for leisure activities. Handmade objects for the home were considered constructive projects to occupy housewives during their new free time.