Portrait of a Lady 1845

This miniature portrait was painted on ivory by Daniel F. Ames sometime in the 19th century. Look closely, and you'll see the care taken to render the sitter's face – the delicate stippling and blending that gives her skin its soft appearance. Ivory miniatures like this were luxury objects, often commissioned by wealthy families. The choice of ivory as a support was significant. It was expensive and difficult to work with, but its smooth, light surface allowed artists to achieve remarkable detail. The process involved carefully preparing the ivory, applying thin washes of watercolor, and building up layers of color to create a luminous effect. The small scale also demanded incredible precision. The portrait is encased in a blue velvet frame, adding to its preciousness. Its intimate scale and delicate materials speak to a culture of refinement and privilege. Appreciating the skill and labor involved in its making helps us understand the social context in which it was created, challenging any divide between high art and craft.