2. Benjamin Franklin miniature
The people who got us out from under the redcoats’ thumbs were all badasses, but Benjamin Franklin was surely the badassiest of them all. True facts about BF: self-made, loved tofu, eventual abolitionist, had little use for religious dogma but prayed daily to “the Infinite,” wrote frankly about sex, made a fortune writing proverbs, charted and named the Gulf Stream, passionately believed in free speech and giving back. Funny, industrious, bit of a louche, and was clearly done with fancy wigs and clothes by the end. Thank you, Infinite, that this “rustic” genius was ours. Great little miniature portrait, too.
This post is part of MFAH 100, a series featuring works from the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, in honor of its 100th birthday. 100 works, 100 words, 100 days. For details and to adjust subscription settings, click here.
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Oh....I loved this! And the miniature...that chin of resolve....So, have you read Rosen's The Pursuit of Happiness? Wonderful, beautiful, inspiring, encouraging. American conscience at its best (I think). I keep it very handy for immediate gratification to any inquiry.
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