Attributed to Ellen Sharples – John Bard National Gallery of Art (Washington)

The miniature portrait presents a man in profile against a dark, muted background. He is depicted from the chest upwards, his gaze directed towards the left of the frame. The subjects hair is styled in a fashion characteristic of the late eighteenth century – powdered and arranged with deliberate formality. A white cravat adorns his neck, meticulously tied and adding to the overall impression of refinement and status. He wears a dark coat or jacket, its texture suggested through subtle variations in tone.
The artist’s handling of light is noteworthy. It illuminates the mans face, highlighting the planes of his features – the prominent nose, the firm jawline, and the slightly furrowed brow. This lighting contributes to an air of seriousness and perhaps even a degree of introspection. The background, rendered in deep blues and greens, lacks detail, serving primarily to isolate the subject and draw attention to his presence.
The composition is straightforward, emphasizing the individual’s dignity and importance. Theres a sense of restraint in the execution; the brushwork appears controlled, indicative of a desire for precision and accuracy rather than expressive flourishes. The limited palette reinforces this feeling of formality and underscores the subject’s perceived gravitas.
Subtly, there is an element of melancholy conveyed through the man’s expression. While not overtly sad, his gaze suggests a certain weight of responsibility or perhaps a quiet contemplation. This, combined with the somber color scheme, lends the portrait a contemplative quality that transcends a simple representation of physical likeness. The overall effect is one of dignified reserve and understated authority.