Hannah Wentworth Atkinson by Joseph Blackburn
In 1760, Joseph Blackburn painted *Hannah Wentworth Atkinson*, a beautiful example of Rococo portraiture now held at The Cleveland Museum of Art. This painting subtly communicates a message through its visual language.
Notice the delicate pink blossom she holds in her right hand. In the common 'language of flowers' of the era, a pink blossom was a symbol of beauty, often conveying the sentiment, 'you are beautiful.' This small detail offers insight into how the sitter, Hannah Wentworth Atkinson, was perceived or wished to be perceived.
Blackburn, an English painter active in British North America, was adept at capturing the elegance of his subjects. His smooth brushwork and use of light highlight the luxurious satin gown and the sitter's serene expression.
What other hidden meanings might be found in historical portraits?
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Transcript
This elegant portrait was painted in colonial America, 1760. The painter, Joseph Blackburn, was known for his Rococo style. Look closely at her right hand, holding a delicate pink blossom. In the language of flowers, a pink blossom often means 'you are beautiful'. Her direct gaze draws you into her quiet contemplation. This portrait of Hannah Wentworth Atkinson is a subtle compliment.