Object Record
Images
Metadata
Catalog Number |
01.C.31 |
Object Name |
Painting |
Title |
Miniature Portrait of Benjamin Franklin |
Other Name |
Miniature |
Artist |
Unknown |
Date |
19th c. |
Description |
Case opens like book, with clasp. Three-quarter portrait painted on ivory is on right side when opened, set into gold-toned metal frame. Franklin, facing his left has fair complexion with rosy cheeks, gray hair, and wears rust colored fur coat with a white jabot. Opposite side is red padded velvet. |
Label |
Painted in watercolor on ivory after the iconic, full-size 1778 “fur collar portrait” by Joseph Siffred Duplessis, this miniature reveals Franklin’s carefully constructed public face. Yet the intimate scale of this item – an object that can be held in one’s hand and viewed privately – invites a more personal reading of the famous statesman. Trained artists and amateurs alike copied Duplessis’ image, and after 1779 Franklin reportedly suggested to admirers that they commission copies of the portrait rather than painting him from life. The portrait's “Union” case was normally used for daguerreotypes (early photographs on silvered copper plates), but such cases could also house non-photographic miniatures. |
Medium |
Watercolor; Case: wood and shellac |
Dimensions |
H-2.936 W-2.5 D-0.813 inches |
Dimension Details |
Open width: 5.25 |
Credit line |
American Philosophical Society |
Search Terms |
19th century nineteenth century Founding Father painting APS President |