Portrait of an Old Lady 1837 - 1845

James Sanford Ellsworth painted this miniature watercolor portrait of an old lady sometime in the mid-19th century. During this period, portrait miniatures served as intimate keepsakes, often commissioned by middle-class families to commemorate loved ones. The woman's attire speaks volumes about her social standing and the cultural norms of the time. Her elaborate lace cap, pearl necklace, and dark, formal dress suggest a woman of means and respectability. The chair itself, with its gilded details, would have been a fashionable piece of furniture. Ellsworth's skillful rendering of these details reflects the sitter's status and the values of a society that prized decorum and material wealth. Historical societies and genealogical databases can provide insights into the identities and social networks of the sitters and artists involved in this practice, further enriching our understanding of the painting.