Artwork
James Kinsey
James Kinsey is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Charles B. J. Févret de Saint-Mémin. It dates from 1807 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
- Inscription
- Inscribed:lower center mount in black ink by unknown hand: James Kinsey.
About this work
Overview
James Kinsey is depicted in a profile portrait created in 1807 by Charles B. J. Févret de Saint-Mémin. The work showcases Kinsey, a prominent figure in American silversmithing and invention, through a nuanced side view.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait focuses on highlighting Kinsey's personality through the meticulous rendering of his profile, emphasizing the subject's individuality over elaborate composition.
Technique & Style
Executed in a simple, understated style, the portrait relies on expressive shading to create depth, characteristic of Saint-Mémin's approach.
History & Provenance
The portrait is part of the collection at the National Gallery of Art, though the medium listed here (mezzotint and engraving) contradicts the initial description of it being a painting.
Context
For context on the artistic style, reference the broader body of work by Charles B. J. Févret de Saint-Mémin, known for similar profile portraits.
Legacy
The legacy of this work is intertwined with its subject, James Kinsey, reflecting the intersection of artistic and inventive talents in early America, though its specific impact is not detailed here.
Own this work as a print
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.
