Caballero desconocido con bigote

Unidentified (Puerto Rican) · 19th century

The unidentified artist who painted this mustachioed gentleman probably received no formal training. The sitter’s head perches atop an exaggerated coat collar and cravat, emphasizing the figure’s awkward proportions. The painter gave most of his attention to the man’s refined features and costume, which imply the social aspirations of a caballero, or minor knight. Conservation of this miniature was made possible through a generous grant provided by the Smithsonian Women’s Committee.