Charles Sumner (1811-1874)

Created:
Movement:
unknown
Realism
key Notes:
Political Portraiture, 19th Century American Statesman
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Dimensions:
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Master
New game
story of the work:

The painting "Charles Sumner (1811-1874)" by Nahum Ball Onthank, created in 1874, serves as a posthumous tribute to the prominent abolitionist and U.S. Senator from Massachusetts, reflecting Sumner's significant role in the anti-slavery movement and his advocacy for civil rights. Onthank's work is notable for its detailed portrayal and the historical context it encapsulates, contributing to the understanding of 19th-century American political and social dynamics.

Description of the work:

"Charles Sumner (1811-1874)" by Nahum Ball Onthank is a portrait that captures the prominent abolitionist and senator in a three-quarter pose, characterized by a dignified expression and formal attire typical of the mid-19th century. The composition employs a muted color palette, with rich browns and deep blues, enhancing the subject's gravitas and the texture of the fabric, while the background remains subdued to emphasize Sumner's figure.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Harvard Art Museum

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Charles Sumner (1811-1874)