Richard Mentor Johnson 1843

John Neagle painted this portrait of Richard Mentor Johnson in the United States, likely in the 1830s during Johnson's term as Vice President under Martin Van Buren. The image presents Johnson as a respectable statesman. Yet, Johnson was a controversial figure due to his open relationship with Julia Chinn, a woman of color he had inherited as property along with his father's estate. Their relationship was accepted in the local community but caused a scandal on the national stage. Johnson never denied their relationship or their children. Looking at the painting now, we can consider the politics of representation in early America, the role of portraiture in shaping public perception, and the complex intersections of race, class, and power. Original documents, letters, and other historical materials can help us understand the social context and the artist's intentions, shedding light on the complicated story behind this image.