Artwork

John and Abigail Montgomery

John and Abigail Montgomery, by Joseph H. Davis, ink, 1836
John and Abigail Montgomery, by Joseph H. Davis, ink, 1836

John and Abigail Montgomery is an ink drawing by the Romanticist artist Joseph H. Davis. It dates from 1836 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. Joseph H.

About this work

Overview

Joseph H. Davis created the drawing John and Abigail Montgomery in 1836, utilizing a combination of transparent and opaque watercolor and ink over graphite on wove paper.

Subject & Meaning

The subject of the work is a portrait of John and Abigail Montgomery, though the specific context or relationship emphasis (e.g., familial, social) is not detailed in available information.

Technique & Style

Davis employed a layered technique, starting with graphite underdrawings, then applying both transparent and opaque watercolors, and finally adding ink details, suggesting a blend of precision and expressive color.

History & Provenance

Created in 1836, the early history and ownership timeline of John and Abigail Montgomery are not specified in the provided details.

Context

The work reflects 19th-century portrait practices, potentially aligning with the era's interest in detailed, realistic depictions of individuals, especially in watercolor, a popular medium for portraits among the emerging middle class.

Legacy

The lasting impact or notable exhibitions of John and Abigail Montgomery are not outlined in the given information, suggesting it may not be widely recognized in broader art historical narratives or may require further research for a detailed legacy assessment.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Joseph H. Davis

Artist

Joseph H. Davis

Joseph H. Davis (active 1832–1837; died May 25, 1865) was an itinerant American portrait painter. Over a period of only five years, from 1832 to 1837, he painted about 150 watercolor portraits of residents of Maine and…

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.