Mrs. John Nightingale (Martha Washington Greene) 1794 - 1797

This is a miniature portrait of Mrs. John Nightingale, Martha Washington Greene, painted by Edward Greene Malbone in the late 18th or early 19th century. It's rendered in watercolor on ivory, a material prized for its smooth surface and luminous quality. Malbone was celebrated for his ability to capture likenesses with delicate precision, and here, the tiny scale amplifies the intimacy of the piece. The application of watercolor demands exceptional control, and the soft, blended washes create a sense of depth and volume, particularly in the sitter's face and hair. The choice of ivory as a ground is significant; its preciousness speaks to the status of both the artist and the sitter. Miniature portraits like this were often kept as mementos or tokens of affection, and the labor-intensive process involved in their creation underscores their value as luxury objects. Ultimately, this work challenges our notions of art historical importance through its intense engagement with material and the skilled labor it embodies.