This is an original gouache painting on a check from First National Bank, dated October 21, 1915. A third of the check is severely discolored because this 107-year-old piece of paper was found in a desk that survived a fire.

On it, I painted a romantic figure, holding herself. She has a classic, dreamy look about her — appropriate for the weathered timelessness of the piece.

The “canvas” measures 3.25 in. x 8.25 in. It’s float-mounted in an antiqued fluted gold frame — final measurements approximately 8.75 in. x 13.75 in.