Nathaniel Scudder Wikoff

Artist Unknown Artist

Periodca. 1810-1820

MediumOil on ivory, colorless glass, gilt metal, wood, cardboard

DimensionsImage: 2.5 × 2 in. (6.4 × 5.1 cm)
Frame: 5 × 4.5 in. (12.7 × 11.4 cm)

InscribedInk inscription "Nathaniel S. Wikoff" on cardboard backing; also "30" stamped on frame back

ClassificationsPortrait Miniatures & Silhouettes

Credit LineGift of Mrs. J. Amory Haskell, 1939

Object number1301

DescriptionAn ovoid portrait of Nathaniel Scudder Wikoff on a shaded blue and peach background. Wikoff is portrayed with thinning curly brown hair and dark blue eyes, wearing a black jacket and ruffled white shirt. The image is set in a dark wood frame with an inner border of gilt metal.
Curatorial RemarksPortrait miniatures flourished in the early United States as one of the most sought after forms of art. They were designed as mementos of the sitter, small enough to be worn as jewelry or safely tucked away. Portrait miniatures were often commissioned to commemorate significant events or presented as gifts and tokens of affection. The origins of portrait miniatures can be traced back to illuminated manuscripts and portrait medals, both staples of the Italian Renaissance period. United States miniatures were often reminiscient of the early European Rococo style, characterized by small and delicate ornamentation, though several elements distinguished these works, such as a focus on realism and attention to individuality. Famed Rhode Island artist Gilbert Stuart (1755-1828) helped popularize the technique by complimenting his full-size oil portraits with miniature versions. A significant advancement in the genre was the advent of watercolors on ivory. This intricate and difficult technique enhanced colors and skin tones, furthering the acclaim of portrait miniatures in the United States.NotesNathaniel Scudder Wikoff (born 11 August 1788, died 30 Sept 1859) married Ellen Conover (born 31 March 1787, died 17 March 1842). The couple had two children, Ellen Conover (b. 25 May 1825) and Marie Antoinette (b. August 1831). Wikoff was the son of William Wikoff, an colonel in the Revolutionary War. He was a prominent farmer and landowner in what is now Manalapan Township, Monmouth County.

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