Susannah Or Mary Bontecou — John Durand

Susannah or Mary Bontecou


John Durand

John Durand (active 1765-1782) was a colonial American portraitist known for his depictions of elite families in New York & Virginia. His precise style captured likenesses during the Revolutionary era, bridging British traditions with emerging American identity.

Metropolitan Museum of Art (new york, United States of America)

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Durand wished to paint historical subjects but settled for portraits, advertising that “his humble attempts, in which his best Endeavours will not be wanting, will meet with Acceptance, and give satisfaction.” This portrait most likely portrays Susannah, the wife of Peter Bontecou, who was also painted by Durand. It may, though, be a portrait of his sister, Mary.