This painting is based on the original 1844 Daguerreotype taken of Joseph, and a recently-discovered Daguerreotype which I believe to be of Hyrum Smith. These Daguerreotypes (shown below) are the authentic images of the prophet and his brother.

Daguerreotypes

Here I've portrayed Emma Smith, beloved wife of the prophet Joseph Smith posing for a formal portrait in the Mansion House in Nauvoo. She's wearing a simple day dress typical of the period. This is based on several Daguerreotypes taken of her in her later years.

Detail

After reading the remarkable book Seer Stone vs. Urim & Thummim by Hannah and James Stoddard, I felt inspired to create a new painting of Joseph Smith translating the plates.

Hannah Stoddard states, "By the Gift and Power of God is a beautiful depiction celebrating Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery’s description of the translation process."

The Joseph Smith Foundation is currently offering a bundle of the Seer Stone vs. Urim & Thummim book and either an 8x10 or 11x14 print of this painting as a companion.

Please visit their website at josephsmithfoundation.org