Who painted African-American Figure?

African-American Figure was painted by James Goodwyn Clonney in 1845.

Where can I see African-American Figure?

African-American Figure is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is African-American Figure?

African-American Figure is associated with Romanticism.

Artwork

African-American Figure

James Goodwyn Clonney , 1845

African-American Figure is a graphite drawing by the Romanticist artist James Goodwyn Clonney. It dates from 1845 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. Created circa 1845, this graphite drawing on wove paper presents a solitary African‑American man in a relaxed stance.

About this work

Overview

Created circa 1845, this graphite drawing on wove paper presents a solitary African‑American man in a relaxed stance. The figure is rendered with quick, loose lines that emphasize gesture over detail, and the paper’s aged surface contributes a sense of immediacy. The work measures modestly, reflecting the artist’s preference for intimate, small‑scale compositions.

Subject & Meaning

The sitter stands with hands in his pockets, a long coat and hat completing his attire, while a walking stick rests in his right hand. The informal pose suggests equality and everyday presence, aligning with the artist’s occasional focus on the social dynamics between white and black individuals in mid‑nineteenth‑century America.

Technique & Style

Employing simple graphite strokes, the artist builds form through tonal variation rather than intricate shading. The drawing utilizes chiaroscuro, allowing light and shadow to model the figure’s volume despite its sketchy execution. The overall effect is a spontaneous study that balances draftsmanship with a subtle sense of depth.

History & Provenance

James Goodwyn Clonney, an English‑born painter who settled in the United States, produced this work during a period when he was known for genre scenes and lithographs. While primarily recognized for miniature paintings, this drawing exemplifies his occasional forays into socially aware subjects, though its ownership record prior to the present collection remains undocumented.