~
~
Possibly I am biased, but I don't think so. I have seen much of the work of Gilbert Stuart. I believe this portrait of Samuel Meeker, merchant of Philadelphia, ranks among his best efforts. Often the painter arbitrarily did not finish a portrait for one reason or another- this is fully completed... & ...exemplary of his GENIUS.
~
~
How fascinating! I love that you're following this interest as far as you can take it. I would, too. My education was in history, and I have a great passion for my own family history, though I haven't made time to pursue it much. Someone about 100 years ago did a genealogy of one branch dating back to the time of William the Conqueror, and if I need a family history fix I have that book.
ReplyDeleteIn any case, this painting is just brilliant and I must say -- on a superficial note, sorry--your ancestor was handsome!
Thanks for visiting my blog today.
It's a brilliant piece of art technically, but I agree, the subject is gorgeous.
ReplyDeleteThis will come out later in this Blog, that Sam kept himself in shape by riding vigorously in the sport of FOX HUNTING. Ok, not politically correct in this day and age, but in those days a form of exercise and means of leisure.
ReplyDeleteclick on the close up and zero in on the eyes,....the detail is incredible, wow, what a painting! Beth, you are very lucky to have such a superb painting in your hold!
ReplyDelete