James Goodwyn Clonney (1812-1867)

Elizabeth O'Leary writes, "The two lads in James Clonney's Boy Fishing...are living off the land. With his fishing pole resting across his knee, a black child returns the gaze of a white boy of similar age. Between them are the fruits of their individual labors--a string of porgies and a hat full of apples. While their mutual regard suggests a possible trade, the outcome is uncertain. Clonney, attuned to current public debate over the annexation of Texas and the possible extension of slavery in the Union, crafted an ambiguous image where compromise hangs in the balance." (American Dreams: Paintings and Decorative Arts from the Warner Collection, Richmond, Virginia, 1997, p. 33)