Mary Smith, the daughter of a wealthy banker, married John Grimke, a planter, lawyer and judge, in 1784. Together they had fourteen children, two of whom, Sarah and Angelina, became known as the "Grimke Sisters" and emerged as outspoken feminists and abolitionists. If anything, Henri has exaggerated the fullness of Mrs. Grimke's stylishly curled hairdo, making it appear artificial. The face underneath, however, is freshly painted and youthful.
Notes:
This text is adapted from Martha Severens "The Miniature Portrait Collection of the Carolina Art Association" published by the Carolina Art Association, 1984
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