Antique Lion Graphite Drawing by W. Johnston Age 15 in Lemon Gold Frame

This old graphite drawing of fierce looking lion shows some staining along the right edge, but I think the drawing is so great, especially the handling and of the face and that fantastic mane, it doesn't much bother me, and the drawing shows very well. And I love the combination of proud lion and proud note, stating that its maker, a W. Johnston, drew it when he was 15 years old. Late 19th c. or so, I believe, in a nice lemon gold painted frame with wood panel backing, where I believe it has likely lived for quite a long time.

Framed: 11 5/8" x 8 3/4". Sight: 9 5/8" x 6 3/4". Staining and a couple of tears along the right quarter of drawing as evident and detailed, and a some surface wear to the gold paint on the frame along the right edge.