Artwork

Men in Seventeenth-Century Costumes [recto]

Men in Seventeenth-Century Costumes [recto], by Emanuel Gottlieb Leutze, graphite, 1854
Men in Seventeenth-Century Costumes [recto], by Emanuel Gottlieb Leutze, graphite, 1854

Men in Seventeenth-Century Costumes [recto] is a graphite drawing by the Romanticist artist Emanuel Gottlieb Leutze. It dates from 1854 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Men in Seventeenth-Century Costumes (recto) is a graphite drawing on laid paper created by Emanuel Gottlieb Leutze circa 1854. The work features multiple figures attired in 17th-century clothing.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing showcases Leutze's penchant for historical themes, specifically focusing on the attire of the 1600s. This subject matter aligns with his broader artistic interests in European and American historical narratives.

Technique & Style

Executed in graphite on laid paper, the drawing demonstrates Leutze's skill in a medium often used for preparatory work, though the Düsseldorf school's influence on the piece's style is not immediately distinct from Leutze's typical historical painting approach.

History & Provenance

Created around 1854 by Emanuel Gottlieb Leutze, a German-born American artist, the drawing's subsequent ownership history is not detailed in available information.

Context

This work reflects Leutze's period of interest in detailed historical representation, contemporaneous with his more famed large-scale historical paintings like Washington Crossing the Delaware.

Legacy

While Men in Seventeenth-Century Costumes may not be as renowned as Leutze's monumental history paintings, it contributes to the understanding of his thorough approach to historical research and depiction.

Saint Augustine Converting King Ethelbert of Kent
Saint Augustine Converting King Ethelbert of Kent, William Blake

Artist & collection

Portrait of Emanuel Gottlieb Leutze

Artist

Emanuel Gottlieb Leutze

Emanuel Gottlieb Leutze (May 24, 1816 – July 18, 1868) was a German-born American history painter, best known for his 1851 painting Washington Crossing the Delaware. He is associated with the Düsseldorf school of painting.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted Men in Seventeenth-Century Costumes [recto]?

Men in Seventeenth-Century Costumes [recto] was painted by Emanuel Gottlieb Leutze in 1854.

Where can I see Men in Seventeenth-Century Costumes [recto]?

Men in Seventeenth-Century Costumes [recto] is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Men in Seventeenth-Century Costumes [recto]?

Men in Seventeenth-Century Costumes [recto] is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of Men in Seventeenth-Century Costumes [recto]?

Museum-quality prints of Men in Seventeenth-Century Costumes [recto] are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.