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Portrait of Gilbert Butler

Artist Peter Laurens (American, born c. 1787)

Sitter Gilbert Butler (American, 1797 - 1875)

Datec. 1840

MediumOil on canvas

DimensionsFramed: 45 5/16 × 38 5/16 inches (115.1 × 97.3 cm)

Credit LineGift of Francis D. McNairy.

Object number1996.1

On View

On view

CopyrightThe images and text contained on this page are owned by Telfair Museums or used by the Museum with permission from the owners. Unauthorized reproduction, transmission or display of these materials is prohibited with the exception of items deemed “fair use” as defined by U.S. and international copyright laws.Label TextBy 1840, people of relatively modest means were able to afford to have their likenesses painted. Included in these pendant portraits of Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert Butler of Savannah are all of the appropriate symbols of refinement, taste, and fashion: a classical column and drapery, a handsome scrolled chair or sofa, a marble-topped table, a vase of flowers. Butler was a carpenter, builder, and architect, and the tools of his trade are included in his portrait to represent the couple’s material success.

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