Elijah Boardman

Boardman poses inside his Connecticut shop. Imported fabrics identify the source of his prosperity. A local portrait thus opens onto commercial networks linking India, China, Europe and the Atlantic world. Goods explain the economic basis of the sitter’s position.

The merchant extends an arm in a long pale coat. A full-length pose gives commercial activity public importance.

Striped fabrics fill the open cabinet. Imported goods reveal the source of Boardman’s prosperity.

Books fill shelves beneath the counter. The shop appears as an organised setting for goods and business.

Quills stand in an ink container. Correspondence and accounting belong to the material organisation of trade.

Pale stockings end in buckled shoes. Clothing participates in presenting the merchant’s achieved position.

Earl returned from England in 1785 and portrayed Connecticut patrons. Commissions helped him leave debtors’ prison. Economic relationships shaped the lives of both sitter and painter.