Artwork
Hugh Smith
Hugh Smith is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Charles B. J. Févret de Saint-Mémin. It dates from 1805 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
- Inscription
- Inscribed:upper center mount in graphite by unknown hand: x; lower center mount in black ink by unknown hand: Alexe. Smyth.
About this work
Overview
Hugh Smith is a portrait print created in 1805 by Charles B. J. Févret de Saint-Mémin, utilizing mezzotint and engraving techniques on black wove paper, later mounted on brown wove paper. The compact work measures 5.72 × 5.56 cm.
Subject & Meaning
The subject of the portrait is Hugh Smith, a notable figure in early American society. The artist's meticulous attention to detail conveys Smith's importance and gravity through his solemn expression and antiquated attire.
Technique & Style
Executed in mezzotint and engraving, the piece showcases Saint-Mémin's skill in capturing realistic likenesses through intricate line work and tonal depth, characteristic of his portrait style.
History & Provenance
Hugh Smith is part of the Corcoran Collection, indicating its inclusion in a significant art historical archive.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Charles B. J. Févret de Saint-Mémin
Charles Balthazar Julien Févret de Saint-Mémin (French pronunciation: ; 1770–1852) was a French portrait painter and museum director.
