This is a rare drawing by John Burn Forrest, who worked primarily as an engraver. The sitter, Dr. Richard Holmes Townsend (1817–1898), was named after his English Quaker émigré ancestor Richard Townsend. Dr. Townsend married Mary Van Syckel (1822–1892), daughter of Elijah and Sarah (Smith) Van Syckel of Philadelphia. An Empire bedroom suite made in the early 1830s and portraits of the Van Syckels are in the collection of Winterthur Museum. Inscribed on verso “Richard H. Townsend” in pencil as well as “Drawn by J. B. Forrest March 1839.” There is also a pencil sketch of a human face. Excellent condition.