Portrait of a Lady 1795 - 1805

James Peale painted this miniature portrait on ivory, a precious material signaling the sitter’s status. Opaque watercolors were meticulously applied to build form and capture fine details. Originally from elephant tusks, ivory’s delicate surface required the skills of specialized craftsmen to prepare thin, flawless pieces. This material process had imbued the artwork with social and cultural significance, suggesting the sitter moved in elite circles. These miniatures were luxury items, often commissioned to commemorate relationships. The silver frame and small size suggest this portrait was made to be worn as a locket. Consider the labor involved, from procuring the ivory to Peale’s artistry to the work of the silversmith. Appreciating these cumulative efforts enriches our understanding, prompting us to reconsider the conventional distinction between fine art and craft.