Artwork
Gouverneur Morris
Gouverneur Morris is a watercolor painting by the American Folk Art artist Pierre Henri de Valenciennes. It dates from 1798 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About this work
Technique & Style
The artist utilized the smooth, translucent surface of the ivory support to achieve the delicate rendering characteristic of the medium.
Created in 1798 by Pierre Henri, the portrait of Gouverneur Morris is executed as a watercolor on ivory. This miniature format, measuring 7 inches in height and 5.4 inches in width, classifies the work within the tradition of small-scale portraiture typical of the era. The artist utilized the smooth, translucent surface of the ivory support to achieve the delicate rendering characteristic of the medium.
As a single-sheet work held in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's American Wing, the piece relies on the inherent luminosity of the ivory combined with watercolor washes to define the sitter's features and attire. The physical dimensions and material choice reflect the specific handling techniques required for miniature painting, where precision and layering on a non-absorbent ground are essential for achieving the final formal qualities.
History & Provenance
The watercolor on ivory portrait of Gouverneur Morris was created by the artist Pierre Henri in 1798. The work, which measures 7 by 5.4 units, depicts the American statesman as its primary subject. While specific details regarding the original commission or a chronological chain of private ownership are not provided in the available records, the piece is currently held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art within its American Wing. The inception date is firmly established as January 1, 1798, marking the completion of this miniature portrait.
The watercolor portrait of Gouverneur Morris by Pierre Henri, executed in 1798, is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Classified within the museum's American Wing, the work depicts the statesman on an ivory support measuring 7 by 5.4 units. While the piece is confirmed as part of the institution's holdings, the provided records do not specify a unique accession number or detail any past public exhibitions for this specific object.
Overview
This miniature watercolor on ivory depicts Gouverneur Morris, an American statesman known for his role in drafting the U.S. Constitution. The subject is presented in a dark coat and white cravat, with powdered hair, his gaze direct and composed. Its small scale suggests an intimate object, designed for personal viewing and portability, characteristic of portraits from the late 18th century.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait captures Gouverneur Morris, a prominent figure in early American history. As a key contributor to the U.S. Constitution, his political influence was significant. His presence in Paris during the tumultuous French Revolution adds a layer of historical context to this seemingly private image, connecting it to a period of profound political change on both sides of the Atlantic.
Artist & collection
Artist
Pierre-Henri de Valenciennes (6 December 1750 – 16 February 1819) was a French painter. A neoclassicist artist, he was influential in elevating the status of En plein air (open-air painting).
