Powell MacRae 1845

Henry Colton Shumway rendered this portrait of Powell MacRae in graphite on ivory. The portrait miniature reflects the norms of 19th-century American society, where portraiture served to solidify social standing and familial bonds. MacRae’s stern gaze, combined with his formal attire, speaks to a particular construction of masculinity, rooted in the values of seriousness and professionalism. Yet, if we consider the intimate scale of the miniature, we can see a gentler narrative emerging, one of personal connection. How does the act of holding such a small, private image change the way we view the sitter? Is this a tool to possess the sitter’s likeness or a token of affection? This portrait embodies not just the identity of Powell MacRae, but also the complex social dynamics of his time. It invites us to reflect on the layers of identity, representation, and personal connection embedded within a seemingly straightforward image.