From the statements provided, it can be inferred that the small field of cotton suggests the plantation focused on crops other than cotton, likely rice or tobacco. The presence of a steamboat could imply a connection to trade, but it doesn't directly suggest the end of the Industrial Revolution or a specific geographical location of the plantation. The mention of over 20 slaves implies the plantation was involved in large-scale agriculture, which aligns with the concept of "cottonocracy," a term often used to refer to wealthy plantation owners in the South, particularly those who profited from cotton.
Therefore, the most valid inference is:
- The plantation owner would be considered a member of the cottonocracy.
The other statements need more context or evidence to be considered valid conclusions based solely on the painting.