Samuel King – The Reverend Dr. Ezra Stiles
1770. 4×3 cm, Watercolor on ivory
Location: Metropolitan Museum of Arts, New York.
На эту операцию может потребоваться несколько секунд.
Информация появится в новом окне,
если открытие новых окон не запрещено в настройках вашего браузера.
Для работы с коллекциями – пожалуйста, войдите в аккаунт (open in new window).
Поделиться ссылкой в соцсетях:
You cannot comment Why?
The mans expression is one of quiet composure; he gazes directly forward with a subtle hint of a smile playing on his lips. His skin tone appears pale, suggesting an indoor setting or perhaps reflecting the conventions of portraiture during this period. The eyes are rendered with a delicate blue hue that lends them a certain liveliness despite the overall formality of the presentation.
He is dressed in what appears to be clerical garb: a black coat and a white neckcloth meticulously arranged at his throat. A large, elaborate powdered wig dominates the composition, its voluminous shape contributing significantly to the visual weight of the portrait. The rendering of the hair suggests an attempt at capturing both texture and volume, though the limited scale necessitates simplification.
The oval format itself is significant; it was a common choice for miniature portraits, lending them portability and suitability as keepsakes or mementos. This form also creates a sense of intimacy, drawing the viewer closer to the subject.
Subtly, the painting conveys an impression of intellectual authority and social standing. The formal dress and carefully styled wig are indicative of a man holding a position of importance within his community. The direct gaze suggests confidence and perhaps even a degree of self-awareness. The dark background serves not only as contrast but also to isolate the subject, emphasizing his individual presence and reinforcing the sense of dignity associated with his role. Overall, the work presents a carefully constructed image designed to project an aura of respectability and learnedness.