Francis Brinley 1729

This portrait of Francis Brinley was painted by John Smibert, likely in the 1720s or 30s, using oil on canvas. The artist skillfully layered the paint to create the textures of Brinley's clothing, the soft curls of his wig, and the smoothness of his skin. The use of oil paint allowed for blending and subtle gradations of color, achieving a lifelike representation. This formal style was popular among the colonial elite, and while it may seem straightforward, it involved significant labor. From grinding pigments to stretching the canvas and applying multiple layers of paint, each step required specialized knowledge and skill. Smibert’s art represents not only his abilities as an artist, but also the social and economic systems that supported his craft. Materials like fine linen canvas and imported pigments were luxury goods, and the price of a commission reflected the artist's labor and the sitter's social standing. Ultimately, the painting is a testament to both the craftsmanship of the artist, and the sitter’s position in the social hierarchy of colonial America.