This artist is as yet unidentified, although some of his work has been cited in various folk art reference books. The artist did, however, always identify his subjects.

In this case, the portrait is of David Schmekl, who is listed in the 1880 census as living in Minersville, PA, widowed, and his occupation was carpet weaver. He was age 67 in 1880, and we believe this portrait was done some fifty years earlier.