Portrait of William Duguid

Prince Demah Barnes

Created:
Movement:
1773
None
key Notes:
Colonial American portraiture, African-American artist
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Dimensions:
Canvas: 20 3/4 × 15 3/4 × 1 1/8 in. (52.7 × 40 × 2.9 cm) Framed: 22 1/2 × 17 1/2 × 1 1/2 in. (57.2 × 44.5 × 3.8 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

"Portrait of William Duguid" is a painting created by Prince Demah Barnes in 1773. The work depicts William Duguid, a notable figure of the time, although specific details about his life and significance are limited. Prince Demah Barnes is recognized as an artist active in the 18th century, but comprehensive biographical information about him remains scarce. The painting is characterized by its attention to detail and the use of color typical of portraiture from that era. The context of the portrait within the social and cultural landscape of the 18th century is significant, reflecting the status and identity of its subject. The current location of the painting is not specified in available records.

Description of the work:

"Portrait of William Duguid" by Prince Demah Barnes, created in 1773, is an oil on canvas painting that features a seated male figure, William Duguid, dressed in period attire. The subject is depicted against a neutral background, which enhances the focus on his detailed clothing and facial expression. Barnes employs a rich color palette, utilizing deep hues to convey the texture of the fabric and the play of light on the subject's features. The composition is characterized by a three-quarter pose, allowing for a dynamic view of Duguid's attire and posture. The artist's brushwork demonstrates a blend of realism and stylistic interpretation, particularly in the rendering of facial features and the intricate details of the clothing. The overall effect is one of dignity and presence, reflecting the status of the sitter within the context of 18th-century society.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Portrait of William Duguid