Col. Anton C. Cron

About this artwork

This miniature shows the artist’s husband, Anton Caesar Cron (1878-1960). Cron served as a major during World War I, and by 1920 had been promoted to lieutenant colonel. He was a professor of military science and tactics in Missoula, Montana, from 1919 until 1921. Nina and Anton had three sons, Frederick, Lucius, and Robert.

Art Historical Context

This intimate miniature portrait, painted around 1927 by Nina Nash Cron, captures her husband, Lt. Col. Anton Caesar Cron, in a waist-length view. Anton served as a major in World War I and rose to lieutenant colonel by 1920, later teaching military science and tactics in Missoula, Montana. The work reflects the couple’s shared life, as the Crons raised three sons while Anton pursued his military career. Miniature paintings like this one held special meaning in the early twentieth century. Often created as personal keepsakes rather than public displays, they allowed families to carry or display treasured likenesses in a compact, delicate format. Nina’s choice of medium highlights both artistic tradition and private affection, preserving her husband’s dignified presence for future generations. Now part of the Smithsonian American Art Museum’s collection through a gift from their son Frederick, the portrait offers a quiet glimpse into post-war American military life and the enduring bonds within one family.