Joseph Barrell, Jr. (1765-1801) 1790

This miniature portrait of Joseph Barrell, Jr., painted by Nathaniel Hancock in 1790, exemplifies the artistic style of the late 18th century. The subject is depicted in a formal pose, dressed in a fashionable coat and cravat, reflecting the elegance of the period. The use of ivory as the painting medium was common in portrait miniatures, which were often worn as jewelry. The artwork, now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s collection, showcases the skill of American miniaturists like Hancock and offers a glimpse into the life and fashion of a prominent individual during this era.