Artwork
William Allen
William Allen is an oil painting by the American Folk Art artist William Matthew Prior. It dates from 1843 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts Boston.
About this work
Overview
William Allen is a 1843 oil painting by American folk artist William Matthew Prior, held in the Museum of Fine Arts Boston.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a young child seated on the ground with two dogs, conveying an atmosphere of innocence and tranquility. The child wears a blue dress with white trim and holds a bouquet of flowers.
Technique & Style
Executed in oil paint, the work is characteristic of the American folk art movement, exemplifying Prior's style in his portraits of children and families.
Context
The scene is set outdoors, with the child and dogs on a grassy area surrounded by trees and foliage.
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Artist & collection
Artist
William Matthew Prior (May 16, 1806 – January 21, 1873) was an American folk artist known for his portraits, particularly of families and children.
Portrait of a Girl and Her Dog in a Grape Arbor
Baby with Rattle and Dog
Child with a Dog
Eleanor Margaret Gibson-Carmichael
Henry L. Wells
Miss Charlotte Papendick as a Child
The Nellis Children of Sherburne, New York
Portrait of a Young Girl
Master John Heathcote
Portrait of Marianne Holbech
Mother and Son
Portrait of a Child Holding a Cat