Skip to main content
John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston MA
John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston MA
Miniature Portrait of President Kennedy
John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston MA

Miniature Portrait of President Kennedy

Artifact IDMO 63.815
Object Type Painting
Date 1962-08
Medium oil on maple
DimensionsOverall H 1 in x W 1 in (2.5 cm x 2.5 cm )

Physical DescriptionMiniature portrait painted on maple wood, of John F. Kennedy in foreground with the US Capitol building in the background set in a surrealist landscape. There are farm fields with a red barn and silo in front of the Capitol, a harbor with boats to the left, industrial smoke stacks in the far distance, with the sun rising behind the Capitol and the moon fading upper right. The artist describes the subject matter as "segmented references to the different major sections of our country. Such as, the farms, the forests, the seaports etc."
Historical NoteThe artist was prompted to paint this portrait "due to President Kennedy's efforts on behalf of the artists of our country. Your recent appointment of a cultural adviser, along with your acknowledgement of the need for the government to take a more active and encouraging role in the arts in this, the greatest country in the world, has indeed given much hope to many of us trying to make their way in these fields."
Additional Details
Custodial History NoteItem was a gift from a member of the general public to the President and Mrs. Kennedy received by the Executive Office of the President in 1963 and held by the General Service Administration until it was donated to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum by the Estate of President John F. Kennedy in 1965.
Credit LineJohn F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA; Gift of the Estate of President John F. Kennedy
Use Restriction StatusRestricted - PossiblyUse Restriction NoteCopyright and other proprietary rights may be held by individuals or entities other than the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum. The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum does not warrant that the use of these materials will not infringe on the rights of third parties holding the rights to these works, or make any representations or warranties with respect to the application or terms of any international agreement, treaty, or protections that may apply. It is your responsibility to determine and satisfy any copyright or other use restrictions. Pertinent regulations can be found at 36 C.F.R 1254.62.
Not on view
Related Links