Old Pat, the Independent Beggar

Samuel Lovett Waldo

Created:
Movement:
1819
Realism
key Notes:
Realistic portraiture, Social commentary
Share:
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
Dimensions:
19 7/8 x 14 3/4 in. (50.5 x 37.5 cm)
medium:
Oil on wood
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

We have not been able to find much information about this work, or we believe the information we sourced needed more review.

Old Pat, the Independent Beggar by Samuel Lovett Waldo

Old Pat, the Independent Beggar, painted by Samuel Lovett Waldo in 1819, is an exemplary work of early 19th-century American portraiture. Executed in oil on wood, the painting captures the character and dignity of its subject, reflecting Waldo's skill in rendering human expression and texture. Waldo, an American artist born in 1783, was known for his portraits that often depicted everyday individuals with a sense of realism and empathy. This work is significant for its portrayal of a beggar, a subject not commonly chosen for portraiture at the time, highlighting Waldo's interest in diverse social classes. Waldo's career was marked by his partnership with William Jewett, with whom he established a successful portrait studio in New York City. The painting contributes to the understanding of social dynamics and artistic practices in the United States during the early 1800s.

Description of the work:

Old Pat, the Independent Beggar by Samuel Lovett Waldo

Created in 1819, "Old Pat, the Independent Beggar" by Samuel Lovett Waldo is an oil on wood painting that exemplifies the American portraiture style of the early 19th century, characterized by its detailed and realistic depiction of the subject. The artwork portrays an elderly beggar, capturing the nuances of his expression and attire, and is part of the collection at the New-York Historical Society.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

Could this content be improved?

Please let us know and we will be happy to correct it.
We may follow up with questions.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Old Pat, the Independent Beggar