Portrait of a Gentleman with Initials H. D. C.
Unidentified
ca. 1795
Medium
Painting-Miniature
Classification
Painting-Miniature
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Rene Muller
Accession Number
1980.95.1
Rights
Public Domain
Tags
bust
About this artwork
Around 1794, the style of powdering hair fell out of favor. In this miniature, the sitter’s long white and gray hair, possibly pulled back in a “pigtail queue,” marks the change from British aristocratic fashion to new trends set by young Americans. The casual hair, assertive expression, and sensual mouth express this gentleman’s confidence, and perhaps even imply a mischievous streak.
About the Artist
Unidentified ( ) · –