Unidentified, John Dallas, ca. 1801, oil on panel, image (oval): 6 5⁄16 x 4 1⁄4 in. (16.0 x 10.7 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 5⁄16 x 4 1⁄4 in. (16.0 x 10.7 cm)
- Credit Line
- Bequest of Mary Elizabeth Spencer
- Mediums
- Mediums Description
- oil on panel
- Subjects
- 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.
