Charles Fraser (1782–1860): The Charleston Miniature Painter Charles Fraser, a Scottish painter born in Edinburgh in 1782, stands as a pivotal figure in the early American art landscape. Though often overshadowed by more celebrated contemporaries, his contribution to British artistic tradition—specifically the burgeoning genre of miniature portraiture—continues to fascinate scholars and collectors alike. This article delves into Fraser’s life journey, artistic endeavors, and enduring legacy, exploring how he bridged the gap between revolutionary fervor and the looming shadow of civil conflic…