Noah Smith 1798

Ralph Earl's portrait of Noah Smith, painted in 1798, depicts the prominent New England merchant seated in a richly appointed interior. Smith's formal attire, including a white waistcoat and black coat, reflects his social status. The presence of a map and a quill pen suggests his involvement in trade and commerce. Earl's style, rooted in 18th-century American portraiture, prioritizes realism and attention to detail. This work is a fine example of American Neoclassicism, demonstrating the influence of European artistic trends during this period. The Art Institute of Chicago holds this important piece in its collection.