Portrait of a Gentleman

Unidentified, Portrait of a Gentleman, ca. 1826, watercolor on ivory, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Mrs. Henry L. Milmore, 1950.4.46
Copied Unidentified, Portrait of a Gentleman, ca. 1826, watercolor on ivory, sight 2 1⁄2 x 1 7⁄8 in. (6.2 x 4.8 cm) oval, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Mrs. Henry L. Milmore, 1950.4.46
Free to use

Artwork Details

Title
Portrait of a Gentleman
Artist
Unidentified
Date
ca. 1826
Location
Not on view
Dimensions
sight 2 1⁄2 x 1 7⁄8 in. (6.2 x 4.8 cm) oval
Credit Line
Gift of Mrs. Henry L. Milmore
Mediums
Mediums Description
watercolor on ivory
Classifications
Keywords
  • Portrait male — unidentified — bust
Object Number
1950.4.46
Linked Open Data
https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/1950.4.46

Artwork Description

The miniature of this gentleman is set in a frame, probably at the request of a patron who wished to display the portrait, rather than wear it close to the body. The thick frame focuses the viewer’s gaze on the sitter’s eyes, emphasizing his stern expression and exaggerated formality. His posture, clothing, and tense features suggest that he was concerned about his representation and status.