Ralph Earl (1751–1801)

• Was an American painter known for his portraits.
• At least 183 of portraits can be documented.
• He also painted six landscapes, including a panorama display of Niagara Falls. 
• Like many of the colonial craftsmen, Earl was self-taught, and for many years was an itinerant painter.
• In September 1786, while living in New York City, Earl was imprisoned for failing to pay his personal debts.
• Even while in jail, he drew portraits of his visitors, friends, and family of the Society for the Relief of Distressed Debtors.
• He was released in January 1788.
• The displayed painting is a crop from Mrs.Noah Smith and Her Children, 1798.
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