The Strawberry Girl c. 1830

Ammi Phillips painted this portrait of an unknown child, titled *The Strawberry Girl*, during a time when American folk art was beginning to emerge as a distinct style. Phillips, as an itinerant painter, traveled through rural communities, capturing the likenesses of individuals who often did not have access to more academic artists. The young girl's direct gaze and the idealized depiction of childhood innocence reflect the values of the era, where children were seen as symbols of purity and hope. Yet, the symbolism of strawberries introduces a layer of complexity. Strawberries were not only a popular fruit, but also emblems of righteousness. The artwork also subtly hints at class distinctions, as the elaborate dress and carefully arranged strawberries suggest a family of means. Phillips’ work offers a glimpse into the intersection of identity, status, and representation in early American society.