Traditionally considered a portrait of Esnard, who emigrated to Charleston as a refugee from Santo Domingo, its identity has been questioned. The likeness resembles very closely a portrait of John Anthony Barbot (1785-1855) a native of Bordeaux who married Antoinette Esnard. Vallee's portrayal is an unidealized one which emphasizes the sitter's dark coloring.
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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