Mrs. Nicholas Fish (Elizabeth Stuyvesant) 1848

This is a watercolor on ivory portrait of Mrs. Nicholas Fish, Elizabeth Stuyvesant, by John Carlin. During the 19th century, miniature portraits like this one served as intimate keepsakes, reflecting the sitter's social standing. Carlin, who was deaf, became a successful portraitist, navigating a hearing world while giving voice to his subjects through art. Elizabeth Stuyvesant, descended from Dutch settlers, embodies the complex intersections of gender, class, and heritage. Her poised demeanor, accentuated by the somber dress and bonnet, speaks to the expectations placed on women of her era. The vibrant red chair is in stark contrast with her attire, perhaps hinting at a quiet rebellion or inner vitality. Consider the artist's perspective; as a deaf artist, Carlin may have perceived and conveyed a unique sensitivity to his subject's inner world. This portrait prompts us to reflect on the narratives we inherit and the untold stories that reside within them.