American portraiture

American portraiture is the art of creating visual representations of individuals, capturing their appearance, personality, and social status. Historically, it reflects the country's diverse cultural landscape, blending European techniques with unique themes like frontier life, community, and identity. Key periods include colonial portraits, 19th-century romanticism, and modern expressions that explore identity and social issues. Artists such as John Singer Sargent and Charles Willson Peale have shaped its development. Overall, American portraiture offers insight into personal stories and societal values across different eras, making it a vital window into the nation's evolving identity.