Ann Calvert Stuart Robinson c. 1804

Gilbert Stuart captured Ann Calvert Stuart Robinson on canvas with oil paints, though we don't know the exact date. This portrait gives us a glimpse into the visual culture of the American upper class. Stuart was one of the most sought-after portrait painters of his era, and his subjects were typically wealthy and prominent members of society. Here, Ann Robinson is portrayed with a composed demeanor, her dress and hairstyle indicating her social standing. The dark dress with lace trim, paired with a vibrant red shawl, speaks to a certain level of economic comfort, and this is reinforced by Stuart's technique. To understand this painting fully, historians would consult genealogical records, fashion plates, and financial documents. By looking at these sources, we can better understand the world in which Stuart and his sitter operated, and come to appreciate the portrait as a cultural artifact.