MARTIN B. LEISSER (PENNSYLVANIA, 1846-1940) FOLK ART PAINTING OF LIBBY PRISON, RICHMOND, VIRGINIA, oil on artist board, a detailed panoramic depiction featuring the prison flying the Second National Confederate flag, four sentries guarding the perimeter, flanked by associated buildings, a ship and barge on the river behind, and the city in the background including a locomotive crossing the river bridge, upper corner inset detailing the commandant's house, signed "MB Leisser" lower right. Housed in a modern painted-wood frame. Fourth quarter 19th century. 13 3/4" x 20" sight, 18 1/2" x 25" OA.  
Catalogue Note: Martin Leisser was headmaster at the Pittsburgh School of Design and was a significant figure in the Pittsburgh art world for over 50 years. He was a close friend of Andrew Carnegie and was said to be instrumental in convincing him to include an art school in the Carnegie Institute of Technology.

Fine condition with no repairs, light craquelure and crazing.