"Apples", by Charles Ethan Porter.
 References to the work of a former neighbor in time and space.

Wikipedia's fine Biography of Charles Ethan Porter at this link - click, please.

Charles Ethan Porter (c. 1847 – March 6, 1923) was born near Hartford, and, among other things, was a protege of Mark Twain, who raised the money to send Mr. Porter to Paris to refine the training of the talented Rockville, Connecticut , Black American native.

He is said to have painted in the Florentine style  and always elegantly. His works are found in the leading collections of the world and spotlighted - top honors-  in Black American Culture venues.

At one time, his artwork was so much in demand he kept a studio on Fox Hill in Vernon, Connecticut AND one in Hartford.
All sources agree his work was later suppressed by racial discrimination, only to triumphantly re-emerge in these more correct times.

But many of his paintings remain hidden, from those old days, and then rediscovered by descendants.
The new day we enjoy today is making it possible for all to enjoy his fine work once more...... elle

Vernon Historical Society  in Connecticut, USA  keeps a veritable shrine to his work. The town is very proud of his beginnings there.
The State Historical Society and the Hartford Public Library and the Wadsworth Atheneum in Hartford are also fine resources, online and off.

Links to Charles Ethan Porter art online...
much of it from our Connecticut Historical or the the Amazing Mr. Driskell of Black American Arts Elite.   This one from the Arts Center named for the famed David C. Driskell,  http://www.driskellcenter.umd.edu/index.php 

Thomas Colville Fine Art, LLC  http://www.thomascolville.com/index.cfm?pg=2&pgtitle=Inventory&m=a&k=281

Citizens of Color, 1863-1890: The Black Elite: The 'Talented ... Citizens of Color, 1863-1890: The "Talented Tenth". Charles Ethan Porter. Mounting racism certainly was a barrier that narrowed the ... http://www.hartford-hwp.com/HBHP/exhibit/05/3.html 

More about the Elite and the Talented Tenth 

I hope you will wish to Link to a Top Source for all things "Charles Ethan Porter" at the Vernon Connecticut Historical Society, located northeast of Hartford; we are apples and ice cream and once a Megapolis for Textiles. 

Vernon's Fox Hill with its three-state view was Mr. Porter's home for part of his life. 

Mr. Porter's archived writings include recommendation from Mark Twain, courtesy letters of introduction, and the Historical Society here has reverently Archived and shared his work and history. 

Mr. Porter's work and life are favorite local school display projects. 

Whatever your source, do look up his work - it is truly elegant and top-notch! 

Charles Ethan Porter, noted Black American Painter