Harriet Throckmorton

Periodca. 1830-1845

MediumWatercolor on vellum, colorless glass, red leather case, white silk, white plush velvet, metal.

DimensionsImage: 3.25 × 2.63 in. (8.3 × 6.7 cm)
Closed case: 4.63 × 3 in. (11.7 × 7.6 cm)

ClassificationsPortrait Miniatures & Silhouettes

Credit LineGift of Mrs. Hnery [Lena] Brinley, 1972

Object number1972.5.15

DescriptionMiniature portrait, to waist, of Harriet Throckmorton. Faces to left; dark brown hair with multiple short curls at temples. Gray eyes; wears ruffled cap with diagonally pleated bodice and full sleves. White lace collar with double salloped edges. Gray stippled background. Red leather case with hinged lid, white silk padded lining, glass cover over image, held in with white plush velvet edging.
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.NotesHarriet Throckmorton was the daughter of Lieutenant John Throckmorton (born Shrewsbury, Monmouth County, New Jersey, 4 March 1752) and Margaret White. She is possibly a cousin of Maggie Allen, also of Shrewsbury.

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