Artwork
Portrait of a Gentleman
Portrait of a Gentleman is a watercolor painting. It dates from 1802 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About this work
Technique & Style
Created in 1802, this portrait is executed in watercolor on an ivory support. As a small-scale portrait, it depicts a male subject rendered with the delicate handling characteristic of the medium. The piece is held in the American Wing of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
History & Provenance
Portrait of a Gentleman is a watercolor on ivory dating to 1802, attributed to an unknown hand and held in the American Wing of the Metropolitan Museum of Art under accession number 2006.235.237. While the work is part of the museum's permanent holdings, the available records do not document a specific commission, the exact date of acquisition, or any past exhibition or loan history for this object.
Overview
This miniature, titled Portrait of a Gentleman, is rendered in watercolor on ivory. It depicts a man in formal attire, his gaze directed forward. The artwork's diminutive scale, small enough to be held in one's hand, suggests an intimate purpose. His crisp cravat and carefully styled hair indicate a refined appearance, characteristic of the era.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, a gentleman in a dark coat, presents a composed demeanor, his white cravat neatly arranged and his hair tied back. His direct gaze engages the viewer, creating a sense of personal connection despite the painting's small size. Such miniature portraits were often commissioned for private devotion or as tokens of affection, intended for close viewing.
Context
Given its small dimensions and delicate medium, this portrait was likely intended for personal adornment or safekeeping. It could have been set into a locket or worn as a pendant, allowing the owner to carry the image of a loved one close to them. This practice underscores the intimate and portable nature of miniature painting during its period of popularity.
Artist & collection
