Mary Campbell Stuart c. 1815

Gilbert Stuart painted this portrait of Mary Campbell Stuart, likely in the early 19th century. Stuart was one of the most celebrated portrait painters in the new republic of the United States. It's tempting to think of portraiture as a simple record of likeness. But in reality, it was deeply intertwined with the social hierarchies of its time. Only the wealthy could afford to commission a portrait. This painting, with its subdued elegance and emphasis on Mary’s refined features, speaks to the values of her social class. Historical societies and archives can offer insights into the sitter and the artist. By looking at letters, diaries, and other documents, we can begin to understand the complex social world in which this painting was created, and its role in shaping cultural identities.