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Portrait of Eliza R. Bead, 1833

This striking portrait, painted in October 1833, captures Eliza R. Bead, born February 19, 1811. She is depicted seated, adorned in a voluminous black dress with intricate lace detailing around the neckline and sleeves. A delicate sheer veil, adorned with ruffles, frames her hair, which is styled in an elaborate updo. Her jewelry includes a long, beaded gold necklace and prominent earrings featuring a pearl-like stone. Her left hand rests on a white cloth, and she wears a ring on her right hand. The background is a vibrant, solid green, creating a stark contrast with her dark attire. The painting's style suggests a folk art or naive art aesthetic, with a direct and unembellished portrayal of the sitter. The overall impression is one of dignified formality, characteristic of portraiture from the early 19th century.

Colour palette