Martin Van Buren Reverse Painting on Glass
Pennsylvania, circa 1835–1840
Reverse-painted glass in original frame.
Frame: 12 x 9 1/2 inches 
 
A finely executed reverse painting on glass depicting Martin Van Buren, produced in Pennsylvania during the years surrounding his presidency. Created as Van Buren emerged from Andrew Jackson's trusted political ally to become the eighth President of the United States in 1837, portraits of this type reflect the growing market for affordable likenesses of prominent American statesmen. Rendered in the distinctive folk style associated with early nineteenth-century reverse glass painting, the composition presents Van Buren seated in a blue coat above an identifying inscription. Retaining its original molded frame, the work survives as an appealing example of American folk art and Jacksonian-era political portraiture.
 
Condition: Very good condition with expected minor wear to the original frame. The reverse-painted surface is well preserved with strong color and no significant areas of paint loss. A handsome, untouched example retaining excellent visual appeal.