Object Record
Images
Metadata
Catalog Number |
58.P.61 |
Object Name |
Painting |
Title |
Miniature Portrait of Sir Isaac Newton |
Other Name |
Miniature |
Artist |
Unknown |
Date |
1725-99 |
Description |
Bust-length, oval portrait with body turned slightly to the left, in front of a gray background. The subject has powdered or gray hair, brown eyes, and a pale complexion. He wears a blue damask banyan, a waistcoat with gold, braided edges, and a white neckcloth. The miniature portrait is set in a gold locket with blue enamel backing surrounding a pearl oval which holds a glass covering for an arrangement of hair. Unsigned and undated. |
Label |
In 1943, World War II and the German bombing of London prevented the Royal Society from sending a delegate to the American Philosophical Society's bicentennial celebration. Instead, the British institution sent this portrait miniature of famed mathematical physicist Sir Isaac Newton. The unknown artist probably copied a print made after a 1725 painting by John Vanderbank, completed when Newton was eighty-three years old. Two locks of hair (one brown and one white, presumably from different times in Newton's life) are preserved under glass on the reverse. In early 2003, the hair was tested to see if it could be Newton's. At the same time, it was analyzed for traces of poisonous metals that may have contributed to the scientist's episodes of mental illness. The DNA sequences did not match any other supposed Newton hair, and tests for hazardous compounds were inconclusive. The hair remains a mystery. |
Medium |
Watercolor on ivory |
Dimensions |
H-2.125 W-1.25 D-0.375 inches |
Dimension Details |
Height incl. extension at top; oval |
Credit line |
American Philosophical Society. Gift of the Royal Society, May 1943. |
Search Terms |
18th century eighteenth century 20th century twentieth century painting mathematics scientist Britain physics |