John Payne Todd 1817

This miniature portrait of John Payne Todd, painted in 1817 by Joseph Wood, is a small but striking example of the artist's work. The sitter is depicted in a formal pose, wearing a dark blue coat with a white cravat, his gaze directed toward the viewer. The detail in the painting is impressive given its small size, showcasing Wood's skill as a miniaturist. Miniature portraits, popular in the 18th and 19th centuries, allowed individuals to own personal, portable likenesses of loved ones or prominent figures. The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City houses this artwork.