Mr. Goodin
Medium
Painting-Miniature
Classification
Painting-Miniature
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Quentin J. Ogle
Accession Number
1984.84.3
Tags
About this artwork
These miniatures depict two of the four Goodin brothers: William, James, John, or Samuel. The relationship of the two men is confirmed by their striking resemblance and the similar gold pin worn by both. The older Mr. Goodin is likely to be William Francis Goodin, the husband of Amanda Elias Goodin, who lived from 1807 to 1867. His career as a banker made it necessary for the family to relocate many times, living in Mississippi, Kentucky, New Orleans, St. Louis, and in Philadelphia, where these ...
Art Historical Context
"Mr. Goodin," a delicate miniature portrait painted around 1835 by James P. Smithca. 1803–1888) in Philadelphia, captures the refined likeness of one of thein brothers—likely the elder William Francis Goodin (1807–1867). This intimate work, part of a pair depicting two siblings (possibly from among William, James, John or Samuel), highlights their resemblance and shared gold pin, underscoring strong familial bonds. Miniatures like this were cherished 19th-century keepsakes, often rendered in fine detail on a small scale with watercolor on ivory, making them portable treasures for travelers. W...