Portrait of an African American Man (1820) by Joshua Johnson

Portrait of an African American Man - Joshua Johnson - 1820

Artwork Information

TitlePortrait of an African American Man
ArtistJoshua Johnson
Date1820
Art MovementNaïve Art (Primitivism)

About Portrait of an African American Man

The artwork titled “Portrait of an African American Man” was masterfully created by Joshua Johnson in the year 1820. This exemplary piece belongs to the Naïve Art movement, also known as Primitivism, and is classified within the portrait genre.

The artwork features a finely dressed African American man, his visage exuding a composed and introspective demeanor. His attire, consisting of a formal black coat, a white shirt with high collars, and a cravat, is accessorized with a gold buttoned waistcoat, suggesting a sense of dignity and importance. The subject’s hair is meticulously styled, and his facial features are rendered with a notable blend of realism and simplicity characteristic of the Naïve Art movement. The background reveals a subtle play of colors and includes a detail of a ship, adding a narrative layer to the composition. The overall palette and brushwork of the piece emphasize both the individuality of the subject and the artist’s distinctive style.

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