Joseph Alexander Ames: A Life in Portraiture Joseph Alexander Ames (1816–1872) was an American artist primarily celebrated for his skill in portrait and genre painting. Born originally as Joseph Emes, he left a lasting mark on the 19th-century American art scene. Early Life and Artistic Beginnings Ames was born in Roxbury, New Hampshire, and demonstrated artistic talent from a very young age. His abilities were recognized early; at just twelve years old, Henry Theodore Tuckerman wrote about one of his paintings, signaling the promise of a burgeoning career. After achieving moderate success…