The artwork titled “Portrait of William H. MacDowell” was created by Thomas Eakins in 1904. Its medium is oil on canvas, and it belongs to the Realism movement within the genre of portraiture.
In this notable work, Eakins captures the essence of William H. MacDowell with a meticulous attention to detail that epitomizes the Realist movement. MacDowell, depicted as an elderly man with palpable character and depth, is portrayed against a somber, dark background, which accentuates his weathered features and solemn expression. Eakins employs a masterful use of light and shadow to highlight the creases and contours of MacDowell’s face and white beard, conveying both the dignity and the weight of years. The subdued color palette and the realistic representation reflect Eakins’ commitment to depicting his subject with authenticity and respect.
