John Dallas

Unidentified, John Dallas, ca. 1801, oil on panel, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Bequest of Mary Elizabeth Spencer, 1999.27.80
Copied Unidentified, John Dallas, ca. 1801, oil on panel, image (oval): 6 5164 14 in. (16.010.7 cm), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Bequest of Mary Elizabeth Spencer, 1999.27.80
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Artwork Details

Title
John Dallas
Artist
Unidentified
Date
ca. 1801
Location
Not on view
Dimensions
image (oval): 6 5164 14 in. (16.010.7 cm)
Credit Line
Bequest of Mary Elizabeth Spencer
Mediums
Mediums Description
oil on panel
Classifications
Keywords
  • Portrait male — Dallas, John — waist length
Object Number
1999.27.80

Artwork Description

The inscription attached to this miniature reads: “John Dallas Departed this life February 11 1801 Aged 38 Years & 10 months.” John’s death date and the burgundy velour frame suggest that this was a piece of mourning jewelry, given to a loved one to remember the deceased. The formality of the sitter’s dress and pose contrast with his disheveled hair and ravaged face. His appearance implies a mortal illness, while the artist’s careful placement of the sitter next to a window suggests a release from suffering.