If you are interested in miniatures, like those offered by Elle Shushan, there is a fine collection at the Nelson-Atkins here in town. The collection is made up of 300-ish pieces originally donated by Mr. and Mrs. John W. Starr. A smaller selection is on display though the pieces do rotate so it’s worth checking in on each (frequent) visit. They are mounted over small mirrors so you can see the backs, which are beautifully decorated, as well.
Image, miniature by John Smart of Colonel Keith Michael Alexander, c. 1810, courtesy of the Nelson. The Colonel is not currently on display, but I liked his snappy red coat.
Sounds like a significant collection. Striking red and black here looks great on your pale blue blog page 🙂
My mother has a few of these from the late 1700’s. They’re so incredible. When i got my camera with the fantastic macro lens, I took a number of pictures of them. The detail is amazing.
Further information on antique portrait miniatures–including a reading list, a blog on portrait miniatures, links to online museum miniature collections, published articles, information on specialist restorers and modern portrait miniaturists (to commission one’s own miniature), as well as miniatures for sale, may be found at http://www.archibaldminiatures.com.
Courtney – he is dashing, isn’t he? Thanks.
Meg – I hope I didn’t miss them – have you shown them to us already? I’m clicking over to see.
Cormaca – you’re the best – thanks for the site.
I always enjoy looking at the miniatures — they are so perfect.
Martha
Mrs. B… i haven’t shown you. i am not sure my mother would want them on display…
Oh, Meg, of course. Heavens, what was I thinking?