Portrait of a Lady 1810 - 1884

This delicate "Portrait of a Lady" was drawn by Moses B. Russell in 1842. It’s a miniature drawing made with graphite and stumping on paper. The artist has achieved great detail despite the small scale. If you look closely, you’ll notice the texture of the paper enhances the softness of the woman’s face and dress. Graphite, a relatively accessible material, allows for subtle gradations of tone, creating a lifelike representation. The technique of stumping, using a soft paper tool to blend the graphite, further softens the image. Miniature portraits like these were often commissioned by families, worn as jewelry, or kept as mementos. The intimacy of the format speaks to a desire for personal connection, at a time when photography was still in its infancy. The work involved in such a meticulous drawing reflects the value placed on individual likeness and social connection. Considering the materials and the labor involved, we can appreciate this work not just as a fine art object, but also as a tangible expression of social relationships and personal identity.