Chester (Charles) Harding

Chester (Charles) Harding (1792–1866) was an American portrait painter associated with the Neoclassicism movement. Born in Massachusetts, he gained prominence for his detailed and lifelike representations of notable figures in early American society. Harding's work was characterized by a focus on realism and a classical approach to composition, which helped to elevate the status of portraiture in the United States. He was also known for his role as a mentor to younger artists and for his contributions to the establishment of art institutions. Harding's legacy includes a significant body of work that reflects the cultural and social dynamics of his time. The exact details of his early life and training remain largely unknown.