March 1898 Issue [Article] The earliest painter in America. Recently discovered records of Gustavus Hesselius, and of our first public art commission Adjust Share by Charles Henry Hart, This article is only available as a PDF to subscribers. Download PDF Tags 18th century Art, American Biography Colonial period (ca. 1600-1775) Gustavus Hesselius History Lydia Hesselius Middle Atlantic States Portrait painters United States More from Charles Henry Hart Portrait of Elizabeth Anthony A portrait by Gilbert Stuart “A portrait” by Thomas Sully Adjust Share