The year his portrait was painted, Drayton graduated from the United States Military Academy. He resigned from duty in 1836, although he retained a position in the State Militia during the 1840s. He joined the Confederate Army as Brigadier-General in 1861 and commanded the unsuccessful defense of Port Royal. He was also a planter and was active in the development of the railroad, serving as President of the Charleston and Savannah Railroad.
Inman has been categorized as a "romantic realist, " and Drayton's miniature bears this out. The detailing and coloring are precise and clear. However, the placement of the figure slightly above the viewer's eye level and with a slight tilt contribute to a romantic mood. The dramatic swoop of the black collar also enhances the portrayal.
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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