England, early 19th Century / 1802
Self-Portrait
The Cleveland Museum of Art catalogs Self-Portrait as portrait miniature (England, early 19th Century · 1802).
John Smart signed this self-portrait with his initials in the lower left along with the date it was made, 1802.
A CLOSER LOOK
The museum identifies this portrait miniature as watercolor on ivory in a gold frame and credits John I Smart (British, 1741–1811).
The museum's collection notes: This self-portrait depicts the artist’s almost full face with blue-gray eyes; gray, curly hair and sideburns; and a ruddy complexion. In spite of the fact that it was no longer in fashion, the powder on his collar indicates that even in 1802 John Smart continued to powder his hair. He wears a dark blue coat with brass buttons; white stock collar, bow, and frill; and deep yellow waistcoat. Arthur Jaffé has argued that the yellow waistcoat also seen in Smart’s portrait in the National Gallery, London, indicates his Whiggish political proclivities. The background of the miniature is yellowish gray, and it is signed at the lower left: “JS / 1802.
FOLLOW THE EVIDENCE
The Cleveland Museum of ArtSelf-PortraitOriginal explanation based on the sources above. Images carry their own reuse terms.