Referencing Father Theobald Matthew (1790-1856), an Irish Catholic priest and activist. Matthew was a working class advocate, even once becoming an outspoken Abolitionist on a tour through the United States; but is largely recognized as the founder of the Irish Temperance Movement. 

Seen here towering over a Temperance parade, punctuated w/ a hugely ornate banner & eagle finial, Matthew holds his Temperance pledge & shelters a needy child. The pastiche reminiscent of Currier & Ives historic portrait lithos, though there is no evidence of a Matthews print. 

Signed Phil Fogarty // 1911. Fogarty is not listed & w/ this naive hand there is every chance this painting was a singular effort by a dedicated disciple for use in a church or other social reform group’s building.

27 x 35” canvas on original stretcher in gold painted frame. Three minor punctures & odd (as original) make-do repair to left edge of canvas. Appears the canvas tore or was cut at the time of creation & reattached w/ tiny upholstery nails. Please see photographs.