Henry George by George de Forest Brush

George de Forest Brush · 1903-01-01

This oil portrait of Henry George, painted by George de Forest Brush in 1903, captures the economist in a moment of quiet introspection. It's held in the collection of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Brush, an American painter and a proponent of Georgism (George's economic philosophy), created this work shortly after George's death. Observe the subtle details: the delicate grip on the glasses, the relaxed hand, and the downward gaze, all conveying a sense of serious thought.

Henry George published his influential book, Progress and Poverty, in 1879. The painting reflects the artistic currents of American Impressionism, with its loose brushwork and focus on capturing a contemplative mood.

What do you imagine he is thinking about in this quiet moment?

Details

He painted this portrait shortly after George's death.

The loose brushwork in the fabric creates a sense of depth and texture.

Transcript

This is Henry George, an American economist. He published his masterwork, Progress and Poverty, in 1879. Look at his hands, paused in thought. He seems to weigh the world in them. The artist, George de Forest Brush, was a follower of George's ideas. He painted this portrait shortly after George's death.