In his first exhibition at the London Society of Artists in 1775, Birch styled himself “Enamel Painter,” and he continued to do so for the rest of his career.    Miniature painting was a valued specialization in Birch’s time, and enamel miniatures were especially prized because their colors were clear, brilliant, and permanent.  They were often incorporated into jeweled settings or snuff boxes, which could sell for the equivalent of thousands of dollars in today’s money.  

William Birch, Triumph of America, 1826.  Enamel on copper. Courtesy of Philadelphia Museum of Art. Purchased with the Joseph E. Temple Fund, 1912.

This small enamel was copied from the right hand part of the engraving, Peace of Ghent 1814 and the Triumph of America shown in the exhibition, and was set as a pin.  

William Birch, Ingenious Artist is on display through October 19, 2018. To learn more visit : http://librarycompany.org/birch2018/