Perry Albert Cohea - Raphaelle Peale

A refined portrait miniature of Perry Albert Cohea by the American artist Raphaelle Peale, executed in watercolour on ivory.

This portrait miniature depicts Perry Albert Cohea, a subject rendered with the precision and restraint characteristic of Raphaelle Peale. Peale, the eldest son of the prominent painter Charles Willson Peale, established his own reputation through these small-scale works. The medium of watercolour on ivory requires a delicate touch, as the artist must build up layers of pigment to capture the subtle gradations of skin tone and the texture of fabric.

In this piece, the subject is presented in a classic bust-length format, typical of early nineteenth-century American portraiture. The sitter wears a dark coat over a white cravat, a style common among the professional class of the period. Peale employs a soft, atmospheric background that directs the viewer's attention to the facial features of the sitter. The brushwork is fine and controlled, reflecting the technical demands of the miniature format.

Raphaelle Peale is often associated with his later still-life paintings, yet his early career was defined by these intimate portraits. This work demonstrates his ability to convey individual character within a constrained space. The oval frame, original to the piece, provides a sense of enclosure that is common in the presentation of such personal items. These miniatures were frequently commissioned as tokens of affection or remembrance, intended for private viewing rather than public display. The condition of the pigment remains clear, allowing for an analysis of the artist's application of light and shadow across the face. This portrait offers a glimpse into the social history of the era, capturing the likeness of an individual with a directness that avoids unnecessary ornamentation.