A portrait is a picture of a person or group of people. Painted portraits from the past can show us what people looked like. The objects included in the portrait give us clues about the people. For example a book might mean that the person in the portrait liked to read or to learn.
Like family photos today, family portraits were popular in Vermont during the 1800s. Lester and Elvira Warren and their daughter Elsie had this portrait painted in about 1843.
Look carefully at the portrait. Click this link to see a larger image. Think about these questions:
1. What can you guess about the Warren family by looking at the portrait?
2. What clues in the portrait make you think that?
3. Why do you think the Warrens had this portrait painted?
Draw or paint your own portrait. Remember to add objects and clues about yourself. Think about what you would like someone living 100 years from now to know about you.
Learn More
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Who were the Warrens? |
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See more Vermont art. |
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Find the clues in George Washington's portrait. (outside link) |
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Create a historic portrait (outside link - requires Adobe Shockwave) |
Activity developed by Tramia Jackson, Cooperstown Graduate Program.
