The artwork, titled “Portrait of Catherine Rachel (Winant) Cole,” was created by the artist John Bradley in 1833. This work belongs to the Naïve Art (Primitivism) movement and falls under the portrait genre. The painting is characterized by a simplicity and directness typical of Naïve Art, reflecting a straightforward and unsophisticated approach to painting.
In the artwork, Catherine Rachel (Winant) Cole is depicted seated, displaying a calm and composed demeanor. She is dressed in a dark, elegant gown adorned with a white, intricately detailed lace collar, which stands out against the dark fabric of her clothing. Her hairstyle is neat, with dark curls framing her face, and she is adorned with gold earrings that add a touch of sophistication. The background features a subtle, warm tone with a glimpse of a red curtain embellished with gold tassels, lending an air of domestic elegance to the setting. Catherine holds a closed red book in her right hand, further emphasizing her poised and educated persona.