Pair of miniature portraits, early 19th c.

Portraits of J. B. Banister and his wife, Sarah Ann. Housed in period appropriate frames that resemble those used by Cephas Thompson, portrait artist. Sight size 3 1/2" x 2 3/4", overall with frame 12 1/4" x 11 1/4" each. Comes with a dated 1840 letter addressed to Sarah Ann Banister from her husband J. B. Banister, wherein he describes his cruise around Europe. He mentions various Mediterranean cities, such as Genoa, Esperia, Mahon, etc. He also mentions visiting the winter Palaces of Italian nobles and sitting in their thrones while they are away. Additionally, he describes visiting some places where Lord Byron spent time. He inquires about the smallpox outbreak in Boston. The letter indicates that they were from the Boston area. The towns of Essex, Danvers, and Medford are mentioned. A full transcription of the letter is available upon request. Overall in modern double sided frame, 13" x 19".