Artwork
Mrs. Peter De Lancey (Elizabeth Colden, 1720–1784)
Mrs. Peter De Lancey (Elizabeth Colden, 1720–1784) is an unspecified painting by the Rococo painting artist George Engleheart. It dates from 1792 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. This small, circular portrait depicts Elizabeth Colden (1720–1784), known as Mrs.
About this work
Subject & Meaning
Executed in 1783 by George Engleheart, this miniature portrait depicts Elizabeth Colden De Lancey (1720–1784).
Executed in 1783 by George Engleheart, this miniature portrait depicts Elizabeth Colden De Lancey (1720–1784). The work functions as a formal representation of the sitter, capturing her likeness through specific sartorial details characteristic of late eighteenth-century fashion. Visually, the subject is presented wearing a cap, a fichu, and garments adorned with bows and ruffles.
As a portrait genre piece, the painting's primary significance lies in its documentation of De Lancey's appearance and social standing at the time of its creation. The inclusion of these specific clothing elements serves to identify her status and adherence to contemporary stylistic norms, rather than conveying abstract allegorical symbolism. The work stands as a direct visual record of the woman, focusing on her physical presence and attire.
History & Provenance
The work was painted in 1783 by George Engleheart and depicts Elizabeth Colden, who was known as Mrs. Peter De Lancey. It remained in the De Lancey family before being acquired by the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where it has been part of the museum’s European portrait collection. The painting reflects the sitter’s social position and the fashion of the 1780s, and its creation is linked to the family’s desire to commemorate her marriage and status.
The miniature portrait of Mrs. Peter De Lancey, painted by George Engleheart in 1783, is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. The work depicts Elizabeth De Lancey wearing a cap, fichu, bow, and ruffle. While the piece is confirmed as part of the museum's holdings, the provided records do not specify a unique accession or inventory number, nor do they list any specific exhibitions where the miniature has been displayed.
Overview
This small, circular portrait depicts Elizabeth Colden (1720–1784), known as Mrs. Peter De Lancey. The subject is presented with a pale complexion, framed by an elaborate white wig styled with high curls. She wears a white lace collar and a pearl necklace, which stand out against the plain, dark background. This composition emphasizes her features and attire, drawing the viewer's attention directly to her presence.
Technique & Style
The artist, George Engleheart, employed soft brushstrokes to render the subject's skin and garments, contributing to a delicate visual texture. Despite some fading over time, the subtle interplay of light and shadow remains evident, skillfully modeling the contours of her face to achieve a gentle, refined appearance. The focused illumination ensures the portrait's central figure retains prominence.
Artist & collection
Artist
George Engleheart (1750–1829) was an English painter of portrait miniatures, and a contemporary of Richard Cosway, John Smart, William Wood, and Richard Crosse.
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