Unidentified Gentleman

Periodca. 1780-1800

MediumOil on ivory. Case of colorless glass, green velvet, snakeskin, brass, wood

Dimensions2 × 1.75 in. (5.1 × 4.4 cm)

ClassificationsPortrait Miniatures & Silhouettes

Credit LineGift of Mrs. Annie Haight Kerfoot, 1935

Object number897

DescriptionA man, facing left with a gray wig and hair tied back with ribbon. He wears a rose-colored coat with brass buttons and white vest, buttoned with two white buttons.
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.

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