Edward and Sarah Rutter

Edward and Sarah Rutter by Joshua Johnson

The painting "Edward and Sarah Rutter," created in 1805 by Joshua Johnson, is an exemplary work of early American portraiture. Johnson, recognized as the first professional African American painter in the United States, was active in Baltimore, Maryland, during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. His work is significant for its contribution to the cultural and artistic landscape of the period, offering insight into the lives of the burgeoning middle class. Johnson's portraits are noted for their clarity, attention to detail, and the dignified representation of his subjects. "Edward and Sarah Rutter" exemplifies his skill in capturing the likeness and character of his sitters, contributing to the documentation of American social history. The painting is executed in oil on canvas, a medium that Johnson adeptly used to achieve a refined and polished finish.

The painting "Edward and Sarah Rutter" by Joshua Johnson, created in 1805, is an oil on canvas work that exemplifies the American folk art style with its straightforward composition and attention to detail. The portrait features the Rutter siblings, capturing their likeness with a focus on individuality and character, typical of Johnson's approach to portraiture.