History:This portrait was painted at the Hermitage, the home of Andrew Jackson. The artist's account book records that he began the painting May 11, 1843. The paint is crackled and has some puffed areas. There is an indication of mended crack in the middle left. It is in fair condition.
Notes:Martin Van Buren (1782-1862) served as the eighth U.S. President of the United States. Born in New York, as a young lawyer, he became involved in politics and was elected to the U.S. Senate in 1821. As a supporter of Andrew Jackson, he was rewarded by Jackson's support when he was elected Vice President in 1832 and President in 1836. During his Presidency, the United States experienced the worst depression in its history. He also blocked the annexation of Texas because it would add to slave territory and possibly bring war with Mexico. He lost his bid for reelection in 1840 and was an unsuccessful Presidential candidate in 1848, running on the Free Soil ticket.
