Asahel Lynde Powers

Asahel Lynde Powers was an American folk artist born on February 28, 1813, in Springfield, Vermont, and he passed away on August 20, 1843. Powers was primarily associated with the American folk art movement, known for his portraiture that captured the likenesses of rural New Englanders with a distinctive, unembellished style. His work is characterized by its straightforward composition and attention to detail, often reflecting the modesty and simplicity of his subjects' lives. Powers began his career as an itinerant painter, traveling through Vermont and New York, which allowed him to gain a diverse clientele. Despite his relatively short life, his portraits remain significant for their contribution to the documentation of early 19th-century American life and culture. His works are held in several prominent collections, including the American Folk Art Museum, underscoring his lasting impact on the genre.