Nancy Bradford Dewolfe (allegedly)

Nancy Bradford Dewolfe, about whose life we know very little, seems to have commissioned her portrait during a visit in Paris between 1820 and 1825.¹ It is not surprising that she chose the acclaimed French miniaturist Singry instead of an English artist, since many of her fellow countrymen enjoyed being painted by a foreign portraitist. Possibly she selected Singry because she wished to have a typically French likeness – which she then obtained. French miniatures were generally characterised by a delicate colouring, calm charm and soft gracefulness. In this portrait the lady’s face is framed by delicate lace,and she wears a head decoration of satin ribbons and roses. Singry had learnt to use these decorations from his teacher Isabey, who was known for such flattering accessories.

B. P.