Artwork

Nathaniel Potter

Nathaniel Potter, by Charles B. J. Févret de Saint-Mémin, ink, 1804
Nathaniel Potter, by Charles B. J. Févret de Saint-Mémin, ink, 1804

Nathaniel Potter is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Charles B. J. Févret de Saint-Mémin. It dates from 1804 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription
Inscribed:lower center mount in black ink by unknown hand: Dr. Potter. / Nathaniel.

About this work

It was made in 1804 using a technique called mezzotint, where artists rough up a metal plate to create soft shadows.

This small print shows a man in a dark coat. He faces left with a serious look. The artist used fine lines to shade his face and coat, making it look three-dimensional.

The print is tiny, just over two inches square. It was made in 1804 using a technique called mezzotint, where artists rough up a metal plate to create soft shadows.

Look for another portrait by Saint-Mémin, Charles B. J. Févret de.

Overview

This small print, 'Nathaniel Potter', is a portrait created by Charles B. J. Févret de Saint-Mémin in 1804 using mezzotint and engraving techniques on wove paper.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait depicts a man, Nathaniel Potter, dressed in a dark coat, facing left with a serious expression. The artist's use of shading techniques creates a three-dimensional effect.

Technique & Style

The print measures 5.56 × 5.56 cm and showcases the mezzotint technique, where a metal plate is roughened to achieve soft shadows, resulting in a detailed and nuanced representation of the subject.

History & Provenance

The print is part of the Corcoran Collection, indicating its historical significance and preservation.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Charles B. J. Févret de Saint-Mémin

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.

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 Nathaniel Potter?

Nathaniel Potter was painted by Charles B. J. Févret de Saint-Mémin in 1804.

Where can I see Nathaniel Potter?

Nathaniel Potter is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Nathaniel Potter?

Nathaniel Potter is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of Nathaniel Potter?

Museum-quality prints of Nathaniel Potter are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.