American: Artist Unknown

Bejeweled, Early-American Lady Seated in a Chair
Made of Tiger Maple and Holding a Pair of Spectacles

American
circa 1825
Artist Unknown

3 x 3 3/4 inches (sight); full frame measures 8 x 8 3/4 inches

watercolor on ivory; housed under glass in a gilded
wood frame with carved wood and gesso ornamentation

A view of the portrait outside its frame, allowing its colors and
brush strokes to be seen more clearly without the distortion or
reflection that is often caused by the glass lens of a miniature's case/frame
(Click + symbol above for an enlarged view)

About the Portrait: Despite being finely executed, this miniature portrait currently remains unattributable to a particular artist. Yes, there are aspects of the painting that resemble the work of known, "listed" artists, but there are other aspects that differ enough to hinder a confident attribution. It is, nonetheless, a wonderful example of early American portraiture, and also serves as a great reference in the study of early nineteenth century fashion. Of particular note, the portrait includes several detailed elements that are clearly intended to highlight the subject's wealth. One imagines that the elderly lady (the gray hair peaking out from under her lace bonnet offers a testament to her age) is the wife of a successful planter or businessman. She is depicted seated in a chair made of tiger maple, a prized and expensive variety of wood at the time. Affixed to her lace shawl is a gold and pearl fichu pin that likely contained the plaited hair of a loved one. Below her shawl, secured to a button and tucked beneath the folds of her dress, is a partially visible pocket watch chain. On the ring fingers (fourth fingers) of both hands, she wears at least four rings, one of which appears to be a large, high carat diamond solitaire. Lastly, in her left hand, she holds a pair of spectacles.

Portions of the portrait highlighted in the commentary above
(Click + symbol above for an enlarged view)