America / c. 1758
Jeremiah Belknap
Jeremiah Belknap
The Cleveland Museum of Art catalogs Jeremiah Belknap as painting (America · c. 1758).
WHY IT’S INTERESTING
Badger was also a glazier, a tradesman who fits glass into doors and windows.
A CLOSER LOOK
The museum identifies this painting as oil on canvas and credits Joseph Badger (American, born The Thirteen Colonies, 1708–1765).
The museum's collection notes: Lacking formal training, Badger got his start painting houses and signs in Boston, then shifted his focus to accommodate the increasing market for portraits in the colonies. Jeremiah Belknap is shown here at about 7 years old, but his attire gives him the appearance of a miniature adult. The artist’s portraits of children often include fruit and animals—the ripening peach in Belknap’s right hand suggests maturation, while the dog at his feet symbolizes loyalty.
FOLLOW THE EVIDENCE
The Cleveland Museum of ArtJeremiah BelknapOriginal explanation based on the sources above. Images carry their own reuse terms.