Artwork
Mrs. John Sevier, Jr. (Rebecca Richards)
Mrs. John Sevier, Jr. (Rebecca Richards) is a watercolor painting by the American Folk Art artist James Peale. It dates from 1794 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. This miniature portrait, Mrs.
- Accession no.
- 1974.30
- Credit line
- Gift of Margaret S. Comeaux, 1974
About this work
Technique & Style
The classification within The American Wing underscores its significance as an example of late eighteenth-century American portraiture.
Executed in 1794, this portrait by James Peale utilizes watercolor applied to an ivory support, a medium characteristic of miniature painting during this period. The work measures approximately 6.4 by 4.8 units, indicating a small-scale format intended for intimate viewing. As a portrait depicting a woman, the piece relies on the translucency of the watercolor medium to render facial features and skin tones against the smooth, luminous surface of the ivory.
The classification within The American Wing underscores its significance as an example of late eighteenth-century American portraiture. The specific combination of materials allows for delicate handling and fine detail, essential for capturing the likeness of Rebecca Richards within such confined dimensions.
History & Provenance
James Peale executed the watercolor-on-ivory portrait Mrs. John Sevier, Jr. (Rebecca Richards) in 1794. The work depicts Rebecca Richards, wife of John Sevier Jr., and is recorded as part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s American Wing collection. While the sources do not detail earlier owners, commissions, or exhibition history, they confirm the painting’s creation date, medium, artist, and its present provenance at the Met. Further provenance information is not provided in the cited sources.
Mrs. John Sevier, Jr. (Rebecca Richards), a 1794 watercolor on ivory by James Peale, is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, classified within The American Wing. The work is catalogued in Wikidata as part of the museum's holdings. No specific accession number, acquisition details, or documented exhibition history are provided in the available sources.
Overview
This miniature portrait, Mrs. John Sevier, Jr. (Rebecca Richards), was painted by American artist James Peale in 1794. Rendered in watercolor on ivory, it presents a formal depiction of Rebecca Richards, the wife of John Sevier, Jr. The work exemplifies early American portraiture, showcasing Peale's skill in creating detailed images on a small scale. It offers insight into the visual culture of prominent families during the late 18th century.
Subject & Meaning
The painting features Rebecca Richards, whose marriage to John Sevier, Jr. connected her to a notable family of the era. This formal portrait served to commemorate her likeness and status within society. Such works provided a visual record for families, reflecting their social standing and personal identity during a period when portraiture was a significant means of representation.
Context
James Peale was a significant figure in early American art, recognized particularly for his miniature portraits and still life paintings. As the younger brother of the prominent artist Charles Willson Peale, James developed his own distinct practice. His contributions, often through small-scale works like this one, were instrumental in shaping the tradition of portraiture in the nascent United States.
Artist & collection
Artist
James Peale (1749 – May 24, 1831) was an American painter, best known for his miniature and still life paintings, and a younger brother of noted painter Charles Willson Peale.
