Portrait of a Gentleman with Initials H. D. C.

Unidentified, Portrait of a Gentleman with Initials H. D. C., ca. 1795, watercolor on ivory, sight 2 ¹⁄₂ x 2 in. (6.4 x 5.1 cm) oval, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Rene Muller, 1980.95.1

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Artwork Details

Title: Portrait of a Gentleman with Initials H. D. C.
Artist: Unidentified
Date: ca. 1795
Location: Not on view
Dimensions: sight 2 ¹⁄₂ x 2 in. (6.4 x 5.1 cm) oval
Credit Line: Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Rene Muller
Mediums: watercolor
Mediums Description: watercolor on ivory
Classifications: Painting
Miniature
Subjects: Portrait male — unidentified — bust
Object Number: 1980.95.1
Linked Open Data: https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/1980.95.1

Artwork Description

Around 1794, the style of powdering hair fell out of favor. In this miniature, the sitter’s long white and gray hair, possibly pulled back in a “pigtail queue,” marks the change from British aristocratic fashion to new trends set by young Americans. The casual hair, assertive expression, and sensual mouth express this gentleman’s confidence, and perhaps even imply a mischievous streak.