Lovely and Unusual Late 19th C. Chestnuts Still Life Japanese watercolor sticks They were long ago folded

They were long ago folded in just the right way so lie completely flat

all counterpointing the gun strapped to his back

which in this case I think just enhance it

The combination of them

Otherwise the wood

Lovely and Unusual Late 19th C. Chestnuts Still Life Japanese watercolor sticks They were long ago foldedI'm really smitten with this little painting, unusual for its solid black ground, which to my eye makes these chestnuts, plus two almonds and a walnut, feels quite jewel like. Curious and special feeling, and with these wonderfully wispy white tufts at the ends indicating they've been freshly shucked. A perfect winter still life I'd say. 8 1 4" x 6" and in good antique condition. Signed A. C. Johnson, January 1898. With a clear coat over the painting