Artwork

Portrait of Robert Aitken, Second Stone

Portrait of Robert Aitken, Second Stone, by George Bellows, 1921
Portrait of Robert Aitken, Second Stone, by George Bellows, 1921

Portrait of Robert Aitken, Second Stone is a print by George Bellows. It dates from 1921 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Portrait of Robert Aitken, Second Stone is a 1921 black-and-white drawing by George Bellows, an American realist painter. The work depicts a contemplative man in a fur coat with clasped hands against a subdued background.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, Robert Aitken, is portrayed in a serious and thoughtful demeanor, suggesting a moment of introspection. The 'Second Stone' designation implies this may be a revised or alternative version of the portrait.

Technique & Style

Bellows employs bold lines, pronounced chiaroscuro (strong light and dark contrasts), and expressive shading to emphasize the subject's facial features and convey emotional depth.

History & Provenance

Created in 1921, the drawing is now part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection. It bears the artist's signature 'G.B.'.

Artist & collection

Portrait of George Bellows

Artist

George Bellows

George Wesley Bellows (August 12 or August 19, 1882 – January 8, 1925) was an American realist painter, known for his bold depictions of urban life in New York City.

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