Thomas Jackson Oakley (1783–1857), B.A. 1801

John Trumbull (Artist)

In 1826 Trumbull's life-size versions of four history paintings- The Declaration of Independence (1832.3), The Surrender of Lord Cornwallis at Yorktown (1832.4), The Surrender of General Burgoyne at Saratoga (1832.7), and The Resignation of General Washington (1832.8)-were installed in the newly built Capitol Rotunda in Washington, D.C. The successful integration of architecture and paintings in the rotunda spurred Trumbull to try for another commission to fill the hall's remaining four empty niches. Hoping to complete his "Hall of the Revolution," Trumbull spent several months lobbying his cause in Washington. Trumbull painted this portrait of Thomas Jackson Oakley, a member of Congress and chief justice of the Superior Court of New York, in 1827 as part of a group of miniatures during a period of hopeful enthusiasm. Unfortunately for the artist, a second federal commission never materialized.

Culture: American

Period: 19th century

Credit: Trumbull Collection

1827

Oil on wood

10.2 x 7.9cm

1832.70

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