I have a postcard with one side showing a the Research Studio of Maitland Florida and on the other side of the card is a personal note explaining the individuals efforts regarding the Research Studio of Maitland. The individual instrumental in creating this facility was noted architect and artist J. Andre Smith or Jules Andre` Smith. I found some background information on Mr. Smith....

  J. Andre Smith, an architect and artist of world renown, chose to live in Stony Creek in a Spanish style, rambling, one-level stucco building of his own design, overlooking the waters and marshes of Stony Creek.

            Smith yielded to family persuasion to study architecture instead of art in college and he earned his Master’s degree in architecture at Cornell in 1901. He practiced architecture in New York and designed many homes including his own on Crescent Bluff Avenue and two others on Yowago Avenue. But preference for pure art influenced him toward a career in which he would be known primarily for his etchings.

Winter trips to Florida brought Smith and Banca to Maitland, then a small community, just north of Orlando. He met Mary Curtis Bok, who assisted Smith in establishing the Research Studio, Inc., which opened in 1937. A cement carving over the fireplace in the Center Gallery summarized the purpose and intent of the center: “The artist’s job is to explore, to announce new visions, and open new doors.”

 The Studio was unique architecturally with many cement carvings and facades done by Andre and Ralph Ponder, a family friend. This same style of architecture can be seen at Stony Creek home.

At the bottom right corner appears to be the signature of ' Andre', my question is, is this the signature of J. Andre Smith?I have found only one example of his signature and that was his full name. Any assistance or insight as to the verification and authenticity of my request would be greatly appreciated....