Booker T. Washington (1917) by Henry Ossawa Tanner

Booker T. Washington - Henry Ossawa Tanner - 1917

Artwork Information

TitleBooker T. Washington
ArtistHenry Ossawa Tanner
Date1917
Art MovementRealism
Current LocationState Historical Society of Iowa (SHSI), Des Moines, IA, US

About Booker T. Washington

The artwork “Booker T. Washington” is a portrait painted by Henry Ossawa Tanner in 1917, an artist renowned for his contributions within the Realism art movement. This particular piece is a genre artwork depicting an individual, crafted with a sensitive and nuanced approach characteristic of Tanner’s style. The portrait can be found at the State Historical Society of Iowa, located in Des Moines, Iowa, United States, where it resides as part of their collection.

In the artwork, the subject is presented against a dark background that contrasts with the lighter tones of the skin and clothing, helping to draw focus to the figure. The individual appears to be in formal attire, wearing a white shirt with a stand-up collar and a bow tie, complemented by a dark jacket that drapes naturally around the body. Tanner’s realistic portrayal captures a sense of gravitas and dignity in the subject’s expression. There is a depth in the eyes, suggesting a contemplative or resolute character. The brushwork seems both deliberate and fluid, with the facial features and texture of the clothes rendered with particular detail and attention, allowing the viewer to sense both the physical presence and psychological depth of the portrayed individual.

The play of light on the subject’s face and clothing demonstrates Tanner’s masterful control of light and shadow, lending a three-dimensional quality to the portrayal. Additionally, the artist’s signature is discernibly situated in the lower right-hand corner of the canvas, providing provenance and authenticity to the work. Overall, the portrait exudes a calm intensity that invites reflection on the legacy and persona of Booker T. Washington, a prominent figure in American history.

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