Mrs. Thomas Dillard (Matilda Kuhl) 1834

Jean Christophe Alexandre painted this miniature portrait of Mrs. Thomas Dillard, born Matilda Kuhl, in the 19th century. Enclosed in a locket, the intimate scale speaks to its purpose as a deeply personal object, a token of affection or remembrance. Note the intricate hairstyle. Such elaborate arrangements were potent symbols of status and femininity. The coiffure, seemingly held in place by an invisible structure, brings to mind similar styles seen in ancient Roman portraiture. This echoes the hairstyles of Roman women as seen in busts, reflecting an aspiration to embody classical ideals of beauty and virtue. It’s fascinating how these symbols resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings. This act of adornment can be seen as a powerful means of engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level. The image stirs a sense of timelessness, reflecting how our collective memories shape and reshape our understanding of beauty across generations.