James Monroe

"James Monroe" is a portrait painted by Gilbert Stuart around 1820–22. The painting depicts James Monroe, the fifth President of the United States, who served from 1817 to 1825. Stuart was a prominent American portraitist known for his ability to capture the likeness and character of his subjects. This particular portrait is part of a series of presidential portraits that Stuart created, which includes notable figures such as George Washington. The work is characterized by its attention to detail and the use of light and shadow to enhance the subject's features. The painting is currently housed in the collection of the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. The exact circumstances of its commission and the identity of the original owner are unknown.

"James Monroe" by Gilbert Stuart, created circa 1820–22, is an oil on canvas portrait that depicts the fifth President of the United States. The composition features Monroe in a three-quarter pose, with a direct gaze that engages the viewer. He is dressed in a dark coat and a white cravat, which are characteristic of early 19th-century formal attire. The background is a muted, dark tone that contrasts with Monroe's lighter clothing, enhancing his presence in the painting. Stuart's brushwork is precise, particularly in the rendering of Monroe's facial features, which convey a sense of dignity and authority. The use of light and shadow adds depth to the figure, while the overall color palette remains subdued, reflecting the somber nature of presidential portraiture of the time. The painting exemplifies Stuart's skill in capturing the likeness and character of his subjects, contributing to its significance in American art history.