American Artist: Abraham Parsell

Jacksonian Era Gentleman, Depicted
with a Dramatic Sky Background

American
circa 1835
by Abraham Parsell (1791-1856)

1 7/8 x 2 1/4 inches (sight)

watercolor on ivory; housed under glass in a gilt copper case with
a cast foliate border and bail, and a glazed compartment
to the reverse containing plaited hair

A view of the portrait outside its case, 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
(Click + symbol above for an enlarged view)

A view of the reverse side of the ivory substrate, showing how
Parsell took advantage of the translucent nature of the ivory
by applying paint to select portions of the reverse in order
to enhance shading and coloring of the image on the obverse
(a technique he frequently employed). Also visible is some
residue glue used to affix the original backing card.
(Click + symbol above for an enlarged view)

Other portraits in the Tormey-Holder Collection by Abraham Parsell
(click photos for larger views and additional information):

Jacksonian Era Gentleman Wearing
a Navy Blue Coat over a Peach-Colored Waistcoat

Young, Jacksonian Era Girl, Holding
Toy Bells and a Sprig of Flowers

Jacksonian Era Gentleman, Seated
in a Chair and Holding a Book