"Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness" at the Yale University Art Gallery

A few weekends ago, we spent a day exploring some exhibits at the Yale University Art Gallery and the Yale Center for British Art (more on visiting the YCBA later).  The exhibit Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness is being presented at the Yale University Art Gallery in three parts, and author David McCullough even narrates part of the audio tours!  (Read the press release announcing the exhibit.)  I was able to catch a quick visit to the first installment, We the People, just before it closed at the end of 2011.  American paintings and other works of art, along with furniture, medals, and other objects both significant and everyday depicted an overview of our nation as it began to evolve from the very first settlements up through the American Revolution.  My favorite pieces (and quite honestly, the reason for my visiting the exhibit in the first place) were the works of John Trumbull.

Self-Portrait
ca. 1802

Artist: John Trumbull, American, 1756 - 1843

Gift of Marshall H. Clyde, Jr.

1981.129.1 

http://ecatalogue.art.yale.edu/detail.htm?objectId=24912

On display were several of his miniatures and sketches, along with his series of history paintings that depict some momentous events of the American Revolution.  I was awestruck to be standing in front of his Declaration of Independence - and even more excited that the brochure for the exhibit features a large fold-out poster of this work!  The first version of this painting is smaller (20 7/8 x 31 in.), as compared to the second, life-sized version that so famously hangs in the rotunda of the U.S. Capitol.  Trumbull actually painted a third version as well, owned by the Wadsworth Atheneum in Hartford, CT.  Trumbull made slight changes in each of these versions, adding or deleting a man or two, as well as changing the look of the room in his last version.

At the time, and even still today, these paintings receive criticism for their inaccuracies.  Most prominently, his Declaration of Independence depicts all of the signers gathered together to sign the document at one time, which we know was not the case.  Some of these inaccuracies were discussed recently in this interactive page by Colonial Williamsburg, where you can even scan over each man to see his name.  I uploaded each version of this painting and had fun comparing them side-by-side and noting the numerous slighter differences, such as the carpet that disappears and the way the cloth on the table changes.  I think my favorite evolution through these different versions is how John Adams seems to get younger...and thinner!  What do you see?

The Declaration of Independence, July 4, 1776

1786-1820

Artist: John Trumbull, American, 1756 - 1843

Trumbull Collection

1832.3

http://ecatalogue.art.yale.edu/detail.htm?objectId=69

Declaration of Independence
 John Trumbull
Oil on canvas, 12' x 18'
Commissioned 1817; purchased 1819; placed 1826

http://www.aoc.gov/cc/photo-gallery/ptgs_rotunda.cfm%20

John Trumbull
The Declaration of Independence, July 4, 1776
1832 Purchased by Daniel Wadsworth and members of the Atheneum Committee
1844.3
http://www.thewadsworth.org/american/?nggpage=5

I also spent quite some time admiring Trumbull's life-sized portrait of General George Washington at Trenton.  This portrait was commissioned by the city of Charleston, South Carolina, but upon completion they decided they preferred a different portrait of Washington.  Trumbull thus kept this painting in his collection for some time before gifting it to the Society of the Cincinnati in Connecticut, which in turn presented it to Yale.  Examining this portrait close-up, I was amazed at the magnificence of the colors in addition to the incredible details.

General George Washington at Trenton, 1792

Artist: John Trumbull, American, 1756 - 1843

Gift of the Society of the Cincinnati in Connecticut

1806.1

http://ecatalogue.art.yale.edu/detail.htm?objectId=20

The second installment of this exhibit, Defining the Nation, is now open at the YUAG and will be on display through April 8, 2012.  We spent some time admiring this installment a few weeks ago.  Much like the first, the exhibit utilizes American furniture, paintings, prints, and other media to present the continuing story of our nation as industrialization and the country's economy began to evolve. 

One of the most interesting stories from this exhibit was that of the New York Crystal Palace.  The Crystal Palace was built in 1854 for the Exhibition of the Industry of All Nations.  The building was used on and off for several years and was also host to the Annual Fair of the American Institute when a fire broke out in 1858.  The entire building, along with the valuable objects inside, was completely destroyed in under an hour.  These prints by Currier & Ives dramatically capture the magnificence and the demise of the Palace:

New York Crystal Palace: For the Exhibition of the Industry of All Nations.

1853

Artist: Frances Flora Bond Palmer (known as F. F. Palmer), American, 1812 - 1876

Publisher: Currier & Ives, American, active 1834 - 1907

Mabel Brady Garvan Collection

1946.9.1625 

http://ecatalogue.art.yale.edu/detail.htm?objectId=46966

Burning of the New York Crystal Palace: On Tues. Oct. 5th 1858. 

During its Occupation for the Annual Fair of the American Institute.

1858

Publisher: Currier & Ives, American, active 1834 - 1907

Mabel Brady Garvan Collection

1946.9.1626 

http://ecatalogue.art.yale.edu/detail.htm?objectId=47196

The final segment of this three-part exhibit, America Rising, will open at the Yale University Art Gallery May 8 and run through July 8, 2012.  You can learn more about the YUAG, its collections, and vising the gallery through its website: http://artgallery.yale.edu/.  If you are interested in exploring more of the gallery's pieces online, please visit the eCatalogue.

Some of the information I shared on John Trumbull was found in Helen Cooper's book, John Trumbull, The Hand and Spirit of a Painter, published in 1982 by the Yale University Art Gallery.  I've been researching Mr. Trumbull and have come across some other interesting stories that I hope to share here soon.

Connecticut Needlework, 1740-1840 Exhibit at the CT Historical Society

The Connecticut Historical Society in Hartford, CT.

On 5 March, the weekend before we headed down to Williamsburg for the symposium and conference, we made the short trip to the Connecticut Historical Society in Hartford to visit their exhibit, "Connecticut Needlework: Women, Art, and Family, 1740-1840."  The exhibit had been on our "to see" list ever since it opened last year, and we had to be sure to see it before it closed the weekend we'd be in VA.  We're very glad we did because it was fantastic and included a superb variety of rare New England-made objects, many unique and all quite beautiful.  I apologize for the lack of pictures in this post, but I promise it's worth reading!  All images taken in the exhibit were strictly for private research use according to the museum's policies, so we're unfortunately unable to share them here, but many of the items are available for viewing on the CHS eMuseum.  Here are a few of our favorites:

- Two panels of a crewel-embroidered linen petticoat dating between 1750 and 1755 (acquisition number 1950.518.0).  The documentation and family history provided with the fragments asserted that this was originally two-thirds of a petticoat created specifically to be worn for a wedding.  I suspect instead that this might have functioned as a underpetticoat, which would account for the very narrow circumference if the fragment does indeed represent two-thirds of the original garment, though that's just a personal speculation; on the other hand, though, the panels are fully embroidered from waist to hem, while many underpetticoats (like this one, which was also featured in the exhibit) were embellished mostly around the bottom third, so my speculation could easily be wrong.  Anyone else have any ideas about that?  At any rate, the embroidery is beautifully done in a stunning floral and vines patterns very representative of the period, and I wish they'd make a pattern off of it because I'd love to recreate it.

- An absolutely amazing linen bedcover, decorated with crewel embroidery, dating to 1760-1770 (acquisition number 1964.35.0).  Be sure to check out the close-up photos to get a better view of the incredible detail in this piece.  The center features an eighteenth-century-clad representation of Adam and Eve.  As I refer back to my photos as I write this, I'm amazed at how fully accessorized these figures are.  That may seem like a random and irrelevant comment, but returning to this bedcover after the accessories symposium, I'm struck by the detail here.  The woman wears an apron and a blue-beaded necklace tied with a yellow-gold ribbon; this same colored ribbon also appears at the peak of her cap (which you can't see) and is used as a breastknot pinned to the front of her gown.  She also holds a fan and sports a pair of buckled red shoes.  Her dashing be-wigged gentleman carries a walking stick and a felt hat.  This just goes to support one of the primary arguments made during the symposium: one simply cannot gain an accurate concept of 18th century dress without looking at it in the context in which it was worn.

- This red satin-weave worsted (calamanco) petticoat (acquisition number 1959.54.2) is a fascinating and unique example of regional needlework.  Its design, which integrates its year of execution - 1758 - is full of whimsy and an eye towards the fantastical.  It includes a mermaid (the symbol of vanity), a lion, a leopard, fish, stags, rabbits, birds, a butterfly, and various flowers and vines.  A sketch of the complete hem design, drawn by Linda Baumgarten and John Watson (of Costume Close-up fame), is included in the catalogue for the exhibit (see below for more on that).

- Faith Trumbull's silk-embroidered overmantel (acquisition number 1925.1.3), dated to approximately 1761.  It is one of a set of three intricately embroidered pastoral pieces, the size of which alone is jaw-dropping.  The scene measures 18.25" by 51.25" (yes, you read that correctly!).  The foundation fabric is a black silk, which means that every last inch of it has been embroidered - aside from the man's breeches, hat, and shoes.  Faith Trumbull, you may recall, is the eldest daughter of CT governor Johnathan Trumbull, whose hometown of Lebanon we recently visited.

- This charmingly adorable and stunning cotton muslin dress (acquisition number 1959.11.2) features white-on-white embroidery and was worn by a teenage Charlotte Perkins in Hartford between 1805 and 1810.  The exhibit's curators speculate that the embroidery was done by Charlotte herself, rather than by a professional, because of its relatively uneven qualities.  The muslin is extremely sheer, which means the gown would have been worn over an underdress (the display features one in pink).

The exhibit catalogue, available directly through the

CT Historical Society.

Although the needlework exhibit is now closed, all of these item are owned by the CT Historical Society and can be viewed by making an appointment with the collection's curator.  A gorgeous full-color 220-page catalogue is also available from CHS and is well worth the price.  The photography is beautifully done and it's chock full of fantastic details about the exhibit items and the history of needlework in eighteenth- and early-nineteenth-century New England.  I highly recommend it!

I have also traced a couple of video links of the exhibit on YouTube, which offer further glimpses at some of the treasures on display: video one and video two.  Please note that neither of the videos were produced by us.  More images can be seen with this review of the exhibit from Antiques and the Arts Online.

The CT Historical Society frequently offers lectures, book talks, workshops, youth programs, and special events, so if you're in the area, be sure to check out their events calendar.  Their newest permanent exhibit, "Making Connecticut," provides an interactive historical timeline view of the life in and the culture of the area, from native and colonial settlement up through the 21st century.  We were able to browse through much of the exhibit in its preview form and were struck by the museum's innovative initiatives to engage the "modern" museum-goer in history.  Our father's family arrived in the greater NYC area in the late seventeenth century and we can trace their settlement in southwestern CT back almost that far, so seeing this exhibit, arranged in its timeline form, was particularly relevant and interesting to our personal history as well.  The exhibit formally opens on 25 May and we're looking forward to returning to see it in its finished form.

Fun articles of interest

I just wanted to call your attention to a neat article in the latest edition of the Colonial Williamsburg Journal.  (For those of you who do not receive this publication, there is a wonderful abridged version available online, along with a nice archive of articles past.)  "Reflections on Reenacting" provides a fun glimpse into this “hobby” with personal anecdotes by the author, D.A. Saguto (CW’s master boot and shoemaker).  Mr. Saguto touches on the difference between reenactors and interpreters, as well as the practice that has become known as “living history.”  If you are completely new to the concepts behind these practices, this is a good overview.  And for those of us who are familiar with these ideas or have experience with them ourselves, you will find yourself smiling and nodding as you read.

Also in this edition is another insightful article about John Trumbull and his famous painting, The Declaration of Independence.  (Remember our post about visiting Trumbull homes in Lebanon?)  Be sure to click on the Online Extra called “Explore The Declaration of Independence by John Trumbull.”  You can roll your mouse over each signer’s face to reveal their names, and learn some fun facts as well.

If this kind of random stuff gets you as excited as it does me, be sure to investigate this publication's archives and upcoming issues!

Governor Jonathan Trumbull Tercentennial Encampment & the Jonathan Trumbull Jr. House

The other weekend, we took a drive over to Lebanon, CT for the encampment celebrating Governor Jonathan Trumbull’s 300th birthday. The journey wasn’t very far, but not having been there before, we once again enlisted the assistance of my new GPS, Bernie. He behaved rather well for the most part, even when I defied some of his directions, insisting that I’ve lived in Connecticut longer and know the roads better than him. I let him scream “recalculating” until he calmed down and came around to my way of thinking. I hope we’ll be better friends someday.

Discussing the route home with Bernie.

The previous week had brought a rather hefty rain storm, so we were a bit worried that the event might be canceled or that the town green would be a mud pit. But Saturday brought sunny weather with a hint of autumn in the breeze. Upon arrival, we drove around the green once and attempted to find a parking space. After almost getting my car stuck in a grassy area, we found a safe parking space behind the First Congregational Church at the end of the green. We changed shoes, put on our hats, and filled our 18th century pockets with 21st century necessities before heading over to the camps. The Lebanon Towne Militia had their sign up at the first tent for regiment registrations and visitor information.

Next to this tent was a line of continental tents and on the opposite side of the green were the tents of the British regiments, with a few rows of sutlers in between.

A weaver in the Continental camp.

Dr. Jackson in the Continental camp.

On the British side: the 54th Regiment of Foot.

As we began taking a peek at what people were cooking and what crafts they were working on, we heard an amplified voice coming from farther down the green. We followed the crowd to where a small number of militia men were gathered on opposing sides. As they were setting up to fire, the man with the microphone explained the typical rules of battle, which we unfortunately could no longer hear once the action began. The little skirmish didn’t last very long, but provided a good example of what a larger battle might entail.  Below are a few pictures of the battle:

It was on this very town green where General Washington reviewed Lauzun's Legion, the French cavalry unit led my General Rochambeau. During this visit in 1781, it is believed that Washington stayed in the Jonathan Trumbull Jr. House. With military encampments and meetings, and as the home to many well-known Rev War supporters (Declaration signer William Williams lived here), Lebanon is now referred to as the "Heartbeat of the Revolution.” (If you are interested in Lebanon history, there is a very helpful list of resources on the town website.)

The Jonathan Trumbull Jr. House Museum

After the reenactment, we took a stroll through the sutler area and then walked down the street to the Jonathan Trumbull Jr. House Museum for a tour. Let me pause here for a brief overview of the Trumbulls of CT:

While giving tours at the Noah Webster House, I am often asked if he is related to Daniel Webster, or some other Webster. What I realized in Lebanon is that there is often similar confusion with the Trumbull family as well - but not a “how are they related?” type of confusion; it’s a “they have the SAME name!” confusion. So here’s a quick rundown of the Jonathan Trumbulls of Connecticut:

Governor Jonathan Trumbull

This is the Trumbull whose birthday was being celebrated. His father was a merchant who had moved to Lebanon a few years before Jonathan’s birth in 1710. After attending Harvard, Jonathan was needed back in CT to run the family business. He served in the CT House of Representatives and was elected as Deputy Governor in 1766 and as Governor in 1769. He retired in 1784 and died the next year. He had six children, including Joseph, Jonathan, and John. (I guess he was partial to “J” names, which I am as well!) His house still stands in Lebanon and is owned and operated by the Connecticut Daughters of the American Revolution. Unfortunately, we didn’t have time to see his house on this trip, but hope to visit again soon.

Jonathan Trumbull Jr.

This Jonathan is the second son of the above mentioned Governor Trumbull. Jonathan Jr. was born in 1740 and, just as his father had done, attended Harvard before returning to assist with the family business. He served several posts during the Revolution, including that of military secretary to General George Washington, witnessing the surrender of Cornwallis at Yorktown. After serving as Speaker of the House of Representatives and as a U.S. Senator, Jonathan Jr. was elected as Governor of CT, a position he held until his death.

John Trumbull

He is the youngest child of the first Governor Trumbull and younger brother to Jonathan Jr. We know John Trumbull today as the “painter of the Revolution.” He attended Harvard as well, and then served in the Continental Army. Before resigning from the military, he served as the second personal aide to General Washington. In the following years, he traveled to London and Paris to study painting and began work on his many portraits and works depicting the fight for American independence that are so familiar to us today.

Back to our visit to Lebanon: Again, we were visiting the home of Jonathan Jr. We had a very lovely and informative tour of the home with only one other guest. Our guide was obviously well versed in the history of the family and the house and was enthusiastic in sharing her knowledge. The house was built in the 1760s and was remodeled by master joiner Isaac Fitch (another well-known Lebanon resident) soon after Jonathan’s marriage to Eunice Backus in 1777. Much of the detailed woodwork still remains intact in the house today.

The wood paneling in one of the front rooms showcases the surviving carvings of Isaac Fitch.

A close-up of Fitch's wood work.

The second parlor downstairs.

Similar to other surviving houses from that time period, it has seen many renovations and changes over the years. Some of the original aspects have been restored, but our guide was sure to point out where the changes were made.

A view of the kitchen from a corner which used to be a closet.  Also removed from this spot was a staircase, leading to the rooms above stairs.

Also, every room featured a poster board with pictures from the various restorations of each room. I found this to be extremely interesting and helpful in visualizing exactly how the house would have looked when the Trumbull family lived there. The house is beautifully furnished with antiques and reproductions and some portraits of the family as well.

Pictured from left to right are Jonathan Jr.'s wife, Eunice, and their daughters Faith, Harriet, and Maria.

This portrait hangs in an upstairs bedroom.  Painted by John Trumbull, this portrait features Jonathan Jr., Eunice, and their daughter Faith.

One of the bedrooms.

Living in Connecticut, I’ve always been aware of the Trumbull family, but I never realized how many contributions they each made to the freedom and betterment of our country. There are several books about the family and the town (many by town historian Alicia Wayland) and I am looking forward to reading further. We are also hoping to visit Lebanon again soon (although I believe most of the houses close for the winter season) to visit the other historic sites in town.