Accession#:
2011.36
Artist - Creator:
Thomas Sully
Object Name:
Portrait
Object ID:
2011.36.1
VE Exhibit Label 1:
On November 9, 1808 Lydia wed James Somers Smith, a prominent lawyer in Philadelphia. They were married, as were many of Lydia's siblings and children, by Bishop White, first Bishop of the Diocese of Pennsylvania. James Smith passed the bar at age 21 and began his own law practice, representing many prominent people of Philadelphia's high society. James was also a founder of the Advancement Society of Pennsylvania and served as a Director on the Board of the Athenaeum from 1826 to 1831.
The couple was able to celebrate 50 years of marriage in 1858. The family is buried in St. Peter's Churchyard, in Philadelphia.
The Athenaeum houses two portraits of Lydia Leaming. The first, completed by Thomas Sully in 1806, portrays Lydia at age 17, two years prior to her marriage to James Smith. The second portrait is attributed to Henry Inman and was painted in 1832. The name plate reads "Mrs. James S. Smith (Lydia Leaming)." Lydia was 43 years old. These portraits can be found in the first floor hallway.
The couple was able to celebrate 50 years of marriage in 1858. The family is buried in St. Peter's Churchyard, in Philadelphia.
The Athenaeum houses two portraits of Lydia Leaming. The first, completed by Thomas Sully in 1806, portrays Lydia at age 17, two years prior to her marriage to James Smith. The second portrait is attributed to Henry Inman and was painted in 1832. The name plate reads "Mrs. James S. Smith (Lydia Leaming)." Lydia was 43 years old. These portraits can be found in the first floor hallway.
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Lydia Leaming
Lydia Leaming