John Brown, M.D.
1839
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1839
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This is a black-and-white portrait of a man in his 60s. He’s wearing a dark coat with three visible buttons, a white cravat, and a faint smile. The background is plain, putting all focus on his face and clothing. The name "John Brown, M.D." is signed below, showing this was a doctor. The artist used a technique called stipple engraving—tiny dots create the shading and texture. Next, look up etching to see how artists like Thomson made detailed prints.
