Three Cats with Blue String, c. 1870s Theorem Watercolor in Period Frame

I purchased this one from a dealer in upstate NY who had it is his collection for about 30 years. I believe the watercolor is based on a Currier and Ives print, as so many 19th century folk art drawings and paintings were, but rare in my experience to find one rendered as a theorem watercolor. (Theorem paintings were made with the use of hand-cut paper or cardboard stencils, lending hard edges to the outlined shapes, and glass tubes used for blowing the paint, resulting in a sort of air brush effect.) But basically, how to resist the faces on these kittens??? I couldn't. The painting is not in perfect condition--there is some toning/staining at the corners, a smear to the paint on the stool at right (I'd guess original to it; and what wonderfully painted wood on that stool), general toning to the paper, and I'd guess some fading to the gray paint--but I think it is very fabulous regardless, and I swear the intense gazes of those kittens follow one wherever one goes! Excellent soft blue ball of string, too. 

18" x 14", framed as found; looks as though it was professionally framed some time ago, with brown paper backing, wired for hanging. Some flaws as noted above: a little toning/staining at the corners, a smear to the paint on the stool at right (I'd guess original to it), general toning to the paper, and I'd guess some fading to the gray paint. Period frame in good shape with general surface wear. C. 1870s.