Dr. Oliver Wendell Holmes (1809-1894)

Dr. Oliver Wendell Holmes (1809-1894) by John White Alexander

The painting "Dr. Oliver Wendell Holmes (1809-1894)" by John White Alexander, completed in 1894, is an oil on canvas work that captures the esteemed American physician, poet, and polymath. Alexander, known for his elegant and fluid style, was a prominent American portrait artist of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This portrait is significant as it immortalizes Holmes, a key figure in American intellectual life, at the end of his life, reflecting both his stature and the artist's skill in conveying character through portraiture.

John White Alexander (1856-1915) was an influential figure in the American art scene, having studied in Europe and been associated with the Symbolist movement. His work is characterized by a graceful use of line and a subtle palette, which is evident in this portrait. The painting not only serves as a historical document of a notable figure but also exemplifies Alexander's contribution to American portraiture, blending realism with a touch of idealism.

The painting "Dr. Oliver Wendell Holmes (1809-1894)" by John White Alexander, created in 1894, is an oil on canvas portrait that captures the esteemed American physician and poet in a dignified and contemplative pose. The artwork is characterized by its refined brushwork and subtle use of color, typical of Alexander's style, and is part of the collection at the Boston Medical Library.