The Hidden Figure: Revealing the Untold Story in a Family Portrait

🎨The painting, originally unsigned, was recognized as the work of renowned portraitist Jacques Amans.

🔍The missing figure in the painting, an enslaved child, was covered up for unknown reasons.

📜Extensive research and records revealed the identity of the enslaved person portrayed in the painting: Bélizaire, a domestic and caretaker of the children.

⌛️The painting went through decades of institutional neglect, including time spent in museum storage.

🏛️The Metropolitan Museum of Art acquired the painting for its permanent collection, highlighting the importance of preserving and showcasing underrepresented narratives.

Why was the figure of the enslaved child covered up in the painting?

—The exact reason is unknown, but it is believed to be related to racial segregation and the Jim Crow laws of turn-of-the-century New Orleans.

Who was the enslaved person portrayed in the painting?

—The enslaved person was identified as Bélizaire, a domestic and caretaker of the children in the Frey family.

What happened to the painting over the years?

—After being neglected and stored in museums for several decades, the painting was eventually restored and acquired by the Metropolitan Museum of Art for its permanent collection.

Why is this painting significant?

—This painting is significant because it sheds light on the erasure of Black figures in art throughout American history and emphasizes the need to preserve and showcase underrepresented narratives.

What does this painting teach us about history?

—This painting teaches us about the often overlooked stories of enslaved individuals and their contributions to American history. It challenges the traditional narrative and emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and representation.

00:00For over 100 years, this family portrait held a secret: a fourth figure that had been painted out.

00:49Jeremy K. Simien, an art collector, discovered the painting and embarked on a journey to uncover its history.

02:41The painting, neglected by museums, was eventually restored, revealing the hidden figure of an enslaved child.

05:20Extensive research led to the identification of the enslaved person as Bélizaire, a domestic and caretaker of the children in the Frey family.

08:12The Metropolitan Museum of Art acquired the painting, highlighting the importance of preserving and showcasing underrepresented narratives.