Mrs. Ichabod M. Cushman (nee Nancy Blymer) 1787 - 1830

Henry Williams created this portrait of Mrs. Ichabod M. Cushman, nee Nancy Blymer, using graphite on paper, sometime in the early 19th century. The portrait captures the likeness of a woman who, by virtue of her marriage, occupied a certain social position. In Federal America, portraiture served not just as a record but as a statement of social standing. Consider the way Mrs. Cushman is dressed, her jewelry, and her composed expression. These are visual cues that signal her belonging to a particular class. The very act of commissioning a portrait speaks to a certain level of economic comfort and a desire to participate in the cultural norms of the time. The study of portraiture like this one involves diving into genealogical records, historical accounts, and material culture. Through these resources, we can understand the complex interplay between artistic representation, social aspiration, and historical context.