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Susan Poinsett

Edward Greene Malbone

ca. 1801-1802

Susan Poinsett by Edward Greene Malbone

Medium

Painting-Miniature

Classification

Painting-Miniature

Department

Smithsonian Collection

Museum

Smithsonian American Art Museum

Credit

Smithsonian American Art Museum, Bequest of Mary Elizabeth Spencer

Accession Number

1999.27.27

Tags

bust

About this artwork

Edward Greene Malbone painted Elisha Poinsett’s daughter, Susan (1782-1804), and other members of the Charleston family in 1801 and 1802. Susan was then recuperating from a lengthy illness, but her recovery was brief and she died two years later.

Art Historical Context

In the early 19th century, Edward Greene Malbone, one of America's finest miniaturists, captured the delicate likeness of Susan Poinsett in this exquisite bust-length portrait, dated around 1801-1802. Working primarily in watercolor on ivory—a medium that allowed for luminous, jewel-like detail—Malbone elevated miniature painting to an art form prized for its intimacy and portability. These small-scale treasures were cherished keepsakes, often exchanged among family and friends as tokens of affection in an era before photography. Susan (1782-1804), daughter of Charleston merchant Elisha Poins...

About the Artist

Edward Greene Malbone · 1777–1807

1777–1807

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