Charles Henry Augustus Carter

Nicholas Biddle Kittell

Created:
Movement:
1845
Realism
key Notes:
Portraiture, 19th-century realism
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Dimensions:
36 1/8 x 30 in. (91.8 x 76.2 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Expert
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story of the work:

"Charles Henry Augustus Carter" is a portrait painted by Nicholas Biddle Kittell around 1845. Kittell was an American artist known for his portraiture during the 19th century. The subject, Charles Henry Augustus Carter, is not widely documented, and specific details about his life and significance remain largely unknown. The painting exemplifies the style of American portraiture of the period, characterized by attention to detail and a focus on the subject's attire and expression. Kittell's work reflects the social and cultural values of his time, emphasizing individual identity and status. The painting is part of a broader tradition of portraiture that sought to capture the likeness and character of its subjects. Further information about the painting's provenance or its current location is not readily available.

Description of the work:

"Charles Henry Augustus Carter" by Nicholas Biddle Kittell, created circa 1845, is an oil on canvas portrait that captures the subject in a three-quarter pose. The painting features a detailed rendering of Carter's facial features, characterized by a thoughtful expression and direct gaze. Kittell employs a muted color palette, predominantly utilizing earth tones, which enhances the somber yet dignified atmosphere of the work. The background is rendered in soft, indistinct hues, allowing the figure to stand out prominently. Carter is attired in period-appropriate clothing, including a dark coat and a white cravat, which are depicted with careful attention to texture and detail. The composition is balanced, with the subject positioned centrally, drawing the viewer's focus to his expression and attire. The overall execution reflects Kittell's skill in portraiture, emphasizing both the individuality of the subject and the stylistic conventions of mid-19th century American painting.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Charles Henry Augustus Carter