Miniature watercolor portrait of young girl (perhaps age 5-10?), one-quarter length, subject is slightly turned to her left side.
Painted on laid paper, what is now an imperfectly cut oval, the subject is well-dressed in 18th century clothing. Against a brown and green background, the girl is painted in a blue dress with large white collar and an elaborate straw bonnet surmount with folds of white. fabric. A white lacey cap appears underneath the bonnet. The girl has dark brown eyes and dark brown hair worn in bangs and long side curls. (by Wendell Zercher)
Inscription on reverse in ink: "G.S./1741/Mary Hamilton". Artist is unknown, although name of Gilbert Stuart is the most obvious one. However, the portrait may be a later copy as the lavish style and strong color of the painting do not appear to be 18th century.
Some soiling and darkening of paper, mounted on a paper backing which appears to be acidic and yellowing. Mounted with a small oval paper (hinge?) at bottom of oval. Some creasing at left side.
