CC0 · no rights reserved
James Buchanan
From the collection of Smithsonian American Art Museum. Free to download, adapt and use — no permission needed.
About this work
James Buchanan served many roles before he was elected the fifteenth president of the United States. This portrait was painted after his term as minister to Russia, but he also acted as a representative, senator, and secretary of state. Jacob Eichholtz's painting accurately depicts Buchanan, who often wore black suits and large white cravats. The future president appears composed and confident, but his slightly uneven eyes give him an intimidating stare. The portrait was owned by Buchanan and then given to his niece, Harriet Lane Johnston, who served as his official hostess at the White House during his administration.
Smithsonian American Art Museum’s own descriptionSubjects
Credit lineJames Buchanan. 1834. Jacob Eichholtz, born Lancaster, PA 1776-died Lancaster, PA 1842. Smithsonian American Art Museum, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Bequest of Harriet Lane Johnston. CC0.