Sarah Wentworth Apthorp Morton

Place: Boston

Born: 1759

Death: 1846

Biography:

Early Life and Education

Sarah Wentworth Apthorp Morton was born in Boston, Massachusetts, in 1759 to a prominent family. Her father, James Apthorp, was a merchant and slave-trader, and her mother, Sarah Wentworth, came from a wealthy New England family. Sarah's early life was marked by privilege and access to education, which would later shape her artistic and literary pursuits.

Artistic Career

Although primarily known as a poet, Sarah's artistic talents extended to painting. Her work is characterized by romanticism and a focus on the natural world. Unfortunately, few of her paintings have survived to this day, but her poetry continues to be celebrated for its beauty and insight into American life during the 18th century. Some notable works by Sarah include:

• Sarah Wentworth Apthorp Morton was known for her American Sappho style of poetry, which explored themes of love and nature.
• Her poem The African Chief (1792) is a powerful anti-slavery statement that showcases her commitment to social justice.
• Sarah Wentworth Apthorp Morton's work can be found in various collections, including the Museum of St George's and the Mugar Memorial Library.

Influences and Legacy

Sarah's artistic style was influenced by the Romanticism Art Movement, which emphasized emotion, imagination, and individuality. Her work is also characterized by a strong sense of American identity and a connection to the natural world. Some notable artists who share similar styles and themes include:

• Roger Eliot Fry, known for his Near Nîmes painting, which explores the relationship between nature and human experience.
• George Romney, celebrated for his Ariel portrait, which showcases his skill in capturing the essence of his subjects.
• Ivon Hitchens, recognized for his Flowerpiece painting, which demonstrates his ability to balance color and composition.

Personal Life and Later Years

Sarah married Perez Morton in 1781, and the couple had six children together. Her husband was a prominent lawyer and politician, serving as the Massachusetts attorney general from 1810 to 1832. Sarah's later years were marked by personal struggles, including her sister's suicide and her own affair with founding father Gouverneur Morris. Sarah Wentworth Apthorp Morton passed away on May 14, 1846, in Braintree, Massachusetts, leaving behind a legacy as one of America's pioneering poets and artists. Her work continues to be celebrated for its beauty, insight, and commitment to social justice. For more information on Sarah Wentworth Apthorp Morton and her contemporaries, visit Wikioo.org or explore the Museum of St George's and Mugar Memorial Library collections. You can also learn more about the Boston Brahmin culture and its influence on American society by visiting Wikipedia.