Joseph Anthony Jr.
ca. 1795-98
Gilbert Stuart, the artist famous for painting George Washington's face on the dollar bill, captures the confident gaze of merchant Joseph Anthony Jr. in this late 18th-century portrait. Notice the striking contrast between the deep blue coat with its gleaming gold buttons and the crisp, ruffled white cravat—a true fashion statement of the Federal era. The dramatic red curtain sweeping in from the left adds a touch of theatrical flair, typical of Stuart's ability to make his subjects look important and distinguished. It’s a classic example of American portraiture striving for the grandeur of European Neoclassicism.