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Catharine Hendrickson by Hendrickson, Daniel

Hendrickson, Daniel · c. 1770

This portrait of Catharine Hendrickson, painted around 1770 by Daniel Hendrickson, is more than just a likeness; it's a quiet testament to a fleeting life and a unique legacy, held at a private collection.

Notice Catharine's serene composure and the rich details of her orange dress and intricate lace headdress. She holds a small bouquet, her presence a focal point against a serene landscape background complete with a red cardinal bird and a symbolic dove.

Daniel Hendrickson, the artist, shares her last name, suggesting a family connection. Remarkably, he was born and died in 1770, the same year this portrait was created. This painting stands as his only known surviving work, making it a rare and poignant glimpse into his brief artistic career.

It makes one wonder about their relationship, and the story behind this solitary painting.

Details

She wears an elaborate dress, a sign of her status.
She wears an elaborate dress, a sign of her status.
Look at the careful detail in her lace headdress.
Look at the careful detail in her lace headdress.
He died the same year this portrait was made, 1770.
He died the same year this portrait was made, 1770.
A still life element on the left, the detailed vase and vibrant flowers offer a counterpoint to the figure and add depth to the scene.
A still life element on the left, the detailed vase and vibrant flowers offer a counterpoint to the figure and add depth to the scene.
Transcript

This is Catharine Hendrickson, painted around 1770. She wears an elaborate dress, a sign of her status. Look at the careful detail in her lace headdress. But the painter, Daniel Hendrickson, lived only a year. He died the same year this portrait was made, 1770. This painting is his only known surviving work. A quiet memory of a woman, and the artist who painted her.