The artwork, entitled “Portrait of Raphaelle Peale,” was masterfully created by the artist Charles Willson Peale in the year 1817. This distinguished piece belongs to the Rococo art movement and represents the genre of portraiture.
In the artwork, the subject is portrayed with a solemn and contemplative expression, highlighting the detailed and meticulous brushwork characteristic of Peale’s artistry. The individual is seated, wearing a formal black coat and a creamy yellow waistcoat, adorned with a white cravat, embodying the fashion of the early 19th century. The subject holds an artist’s palette with a brush, symbolizing his profession and hinting at his possible self-identification as an artist. The background features a still life of fruits within a framed picture on the wall, adding depth and an element of still life to the portrait. The overall composition and elegance of the person’s demeanor, coupled with the rich, warm tones, exude a sense of refinement and composure endemic to Rococo portraits.
