Doolittle, Amos (American, 1754-1832) 1 American artists

The artwork presents a formal portrait set against a backdrop densely populated with symbolic elements and statistical data. A man, centrally positioned, is depicted from the chest up, his expression serious and directed towards the viewer. He wears a dark coat fastened with buttons, and a lace cravat adorns his neck. The artist has rendered him in a style characteristic of late 18th-century portraiture, emphasizing detail in the facial features and clothing texture through meticulous cross-hatching.
Above the figure, an eagle spreads its wings, clutching what appears to be a scroll or banner inscribed with Cent for Truth. This placement immediately suggests themes of liberty, vigilance, and perhaps even national pride. A decorative drapery frames the portrait, adding a sense of grandeur and formality.
The most striking aspect is the surrounding arrangement of state emblems – each representing a different region within a larger union. Beneath each emblem are numerical data points: likely population figures or representations of military strength, indicated by numbers of soldiers and ships. These statistics contribute to an impression of organized governance and national power. The inclusion of these details suggests a deliberate effort to convey the scale and complexity of this political entity.
Beneath the portrait, a banner identifies the man as John Adams President of the United States. This inscription anchors the image within a specific historical context. Further below, additional emblems and statistical data continue the pattern established above, extending the visual representation of the nation’s constituent parts.
The overall effect is one of calculated display – an attempt to present a unified and powerful image of a nascent nation. The combination of portraiture, heraldic symbols, and numerical information suggests that this work served not merely as a likeness but also as a statement about national identity, governance, and strength. It’s likely intended for public consumption, functioning as both a tribute to the individual and an affirmation of the political structure he represents.