The artwork titled “Portrait of Henry Augustus Rowland,” created by Thomas Eakins in 1897, is an oil painting on canvas. This piece exemplifies the Realism movement and belongs to the portrait genre. It is currently located at the Addison Gallery of American Art at Phillips Academy in Andover, MA, US.
The artwork depicts Henry Augustus Rowland, portrayed with a keen sense of realism and detail. Sitting in a chair, Rowland is shown holding an object, possibly a book or some papers, which contributes to the scholarly atmosphere of the portrait. The frame surrounding the portrait is adorned with various mathematical and scientific symbols, likely referencing Rowland’s significant contributions to the field of physics. The dark, subdued background contrasts with the illuminated figure in the foreground, emphasizing Rowland’s contemplative demeanor and scholarly presence. The meticulous detail and the inclusion of scientific elements highlight Eakins’ dedication to realism and his appreciation for Rowland’s intellectual endeavors.
