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Mr. Motte by Theus, Jeremiah

Theus, Jeremiah · c. 1760

This portrait of *Mr. Motte* by Jeremiah Theus, painted around 1760, offers a fascinating glimpse into Colonial American life. It's held in a private collection, but its impact is universal.

Look closely at Mr. Motte's direct gaze and subtle smile. His refined attire, from the white ruffled collar to the ornate buttons on his vest, speaks volumes about his status and the fashion of the era.

Jeremiah Theus, a Swiss immigrant, became the most sought-after portrait painter in the American colonies. His ability to capture the sitter's personality and status made him incredibly popular among the prosperous settlers of Charleston.

What do you imagine Mr. Motte's life was like?

Details

He stares out from the painting with quiet confidence.
He stares out from the painting with quiet confidence.
This painter was a Swiss immigrant, active in Charleston.
This painter was a Swiss immigrant, active in Charleston.
The texture and buttons suggest the sitter's status and the fashion of the era.
The texture and buttons suggest the sitter's status and the fashion of the era.
Transcript

This man lived in Colonial America, around 1760. He stares out from the painting with quiet confidence. His ruffled collar and buttons show his wealth. This painter was a Swiss immigrant, active in Charleston. He was the most in-demand portraitist in the colonies. And Mr. Motte meets our gaze across 260 years.