Thomas Elliott and His Granddaughter Deborah Hibernia 1797

Charles Willson Peale’s 1797 portrait, "Thomas Elliott and His Granddaughter Deborah Hibernia," is a touching example of American portraiture. The painting showcases the tender bond between grandfather and granddaughter, captured in a realistic and intimate style. The subject matter evokes a sense of familial love, while the composition’s careful arrangement emphasizes the sitter’s status and respectability. Peale, a renowned artist and naturalist, is known for his meticulous detail and his ability to portray his sitters with lifelike authenticity. His work reflects the ideals of the American Enlightenment, valuing both reason and sentiment.