Joseph Coolidge (1747-1820)

Joseph Coolidge (1747-1820) by Gilbert Stuart

The painting "Joseph Coolidge (1747-1820)" is an exemplary work by the renowned American portraitist Gilbert Stuart, executed in oil on canvas. Stuart is celebrated for his ability to capture the character and status of his sitters, a skill that is evident in this portrait. Although the exact date of creation is unknown, the work reflects Stuart's mature style, characterized by a keen attention to detail and a sophisticated use of color and light. Gilbert Stuart (1755-1828) is best known for his portraits of prominent figures, including the iconic unfinished portrait of George Washington, known as the "Athenaeum Portrait." His works are significant for their contribution to American art, providing a visual record of the nation's early leaders and influential citizens. The portrait of Joseph Coolidge not only exemplifies Stuart's technical prowess but also serves as a historical document, offering insight into the fashion and demeanor of the American elite during the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

The painting "Joseph Coolidge (1747-1820)" by Gilbert Stuart is an oil on canvas portrait that exemplifies the artist's mastery in capturing the refined elegance and character of his subjects during the late 18th to early 19th century. Stuart's use of soft brushwork and attention to detail highlights the sitter's dignified presence, characteristic of the Federal style prevalent in American portraiture of that era.