William Archer Shee (1810–1899), the Artist's Son

Sir Martin Archer Shee

Created:
Movement:
1825
Neoclassicism
key Notes:
Portraiture, Familial Intimacy
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Dimensions:
30 x 24 3/4 in. (76.2 x 62.9 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

"William Archer Shee (1810–1899), the Artist's Son" is a portrait painted by Sir Martin Archer Shee around 1820. The painting depicts the artist's son, William Archer Shee, who later became a notable figure in his own right. Sir Martin Archer Shee was an Irish painter and a prominent member of the Royal Academy, known for his portraits and historical subjects. The work exemplifies the early 19th-century portraiture style, characterized by its attention to detail and the psychological depth of the subject. The exact circumstances surrounding the creation of this portrait are not well-documented. The painting is significant as it reflects the personal and professional life of the artist, as well as the familial connections that often influenced artistic production during this period. The current location of the painting is not specified in available records.

Description of the work:

"William Archer Shee (1810–1899), the Artist's Son" is an oil on canvas painting created by Sir Martin Archer Shee around 1820. The composition features a young boy, depicted in a three-quarter pose, with a direct gaze that engages the viewer. The subject is dressed in period-appropriate attire, characterized by a dark jacket and a white shirt, which contrasts with the softer tones of the background. The use of light and shadow highlights the boy's facial features, particularly his expressive eyes and delicate skin. The background is rendered in muted colors, allowing the figure to stand out prominently. The brushwork is smooth and refined, indicative of Shee's academic training and attention to detail. The overall mood of the painting conveys a sense of intimacy and familial connection.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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William Archer Shee (1810–1899), the Artist's Son