Portrait of Mr. John Lawrence, Ammi Phillips

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Early colonial painting in the United States was devoted primarily to portraiture. Pragmatic colonists fournd most art frivolous and regarded English portraits as the accepted model to record family genealogy, document social standing, or demonstrate religious piety. Most of these early paintings were done by itinerant painters - limners - considered more craftsmen than artists. They made no attempt at perspective or elaborate drapery. These were early formula painters, so called for their use of standard poses and backgrounds.

Ammi Phillips distinguised himself among early folk art painters. He is most associated with rural New England. Phillips is known for his emphasis on detailing of lace or ornamentation around the neck and head, dark backgrounds, and luminescent faces. These portraits exemplify this style.