Elisha and Joseph: A Story of Portraits Series

The Great Depression was a time of tremendous hardships for Americans, especially members of the African American community. A commissioned portrait at the time was a luxury few could afford. However, Elisha and Joseph, both of whom worked for the Mayo family had their portraits painted by Isabel Jones Mayo. The couple’s smiles highlight the fortitude of the two during such a grueling moment in history.

Find out more about Elisha and Joseph at current exhibition, It’s All Relative: Richmond Families (1616-2016)

Portrait of Elisha
c. 1935
Isabel Jones Mayo
Gift of Newton T. Mayo
V.74.417.02
Joseph-Portrait
Portrait of Joseph
c. 1935
Isabel Jones Mayo
Gift of Newton T. Mayo
V.74.417.02

Joey Fall
PR & Marketing Intern
The Valentine 

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