Images(2)

William and Hannah Boice Lippincott

Artist Unknown Artist

Periodca. 1820-1830

MediumOil on ivory, gold frame with colorless glass

Dimensions2.63 × 1.38 in. (6.7 × 3.5 cm)

ClassificationsPortrait Miniatures & Silhouettes

Credit LineGift of Mr. Gilbert H. Van Note, 1973

Object number1977.3.2

DescriptionA double-sided portrait miniature featuring a man and woman. The man is portrayed with thinning dark hair and noticeable stubble, wearing a dark jacket, white shirt, and stock. The woman wears a full ruffled cap with side curls and ruffled collar over a dark dress.
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.NotesWilliam L. Lippincott (1771-1836) of Shrewsbury was partial owner of the packet sloop "Benjamin Stevens." He married Hannah Boyce [Boice] Lippinocott in 1813, and was buried at Christ Church in Shrewsbury.

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