Nicholas Boylston (1716-1771)

John Singleton Copley

Created:

Movement:

1767

None

key Notes:

Realism, Portraiture

Dimensions:

50 1/4 x 40 1/4 in. (127.6 x 102.2 cm)

medium:

Oil on canvas

Difficulty:

Intermediate

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story of the work:

"Nicholas Boylston (1716-1771)" is a portrait painted by John Singleton Copley in 1767, depicting the prominent Boston merchant and philanthropist in a formal pose that reflects his social status and wealth. The painting is significant for its detailed representation of Boylston's attire and the use of light and shadow, showcasing Copley's mastery in portraiture and contributing to the development of American art in the 18th century.

Description of the work:

"Nicholas Boylston (1716-1771)" by John Singleton Copley is an oil on canvas portrait that depicts the subject in a three-quarter pose, dressed in a dark coat with a white cravat, set against a muted background that enhances the figure's prominence. The painting is characterized by Copley's meticulous attention to detail, particularly in the rendering of textures and the play of light on Boylston's face, which conveys a sense of dignity and introspection.

Artwork Photograph Source:

Harvard Art Museum

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