Considerable mystery surrounds the name Nicholas Alden Brooks. Other than having been active in New York City between 1880 and 1904, very little is known about the artist. There are no records of any art societies showing him as a member or his having participated in any exhibits. The name Brooks, in fact, could possibly be a pseudonym for Robert Fullington, whose name appears on theatrical memorabilia in Brookss trompe loeil still-life paintings.

William Harnett seems to be the source of inspiration for most of Brooks work. Quite often, in fact, Brooks work was mistaken for that of Harnetts, with a counterfeit Harnett signature. Everything in these paintings was calculated to enhance doubts, often with flat objects casting minimal ...