Who painted Professor John Obadiah Westwood?

Professor John Obadiah Westwood was painted by Hubert von Herkomer in 1896.

Where can I see Professor John Obadiah Westwood?

Professor John Obadiah Westwood is held by Ashmolean Museum.

What movement is Professor John Obadiah Westwood?

Professor John Obadiah Westwood is associated with Post-Impressionism.

Artwork

Professor John Obadiah Westwood

Hubert von Herkomer , 1896

Professor John Obadiah Westwood is an oil painting by the Post-Impressionist artist Hubert von Herkomer. It dates from 1896 and is held in the collection of the Ashmolean Museum.

About this work

Overview

Professor John Obadiah Westwood is an 1896 oil painting by Sir Hubert von Herkomer, depicting a contemplative older man in a dark, somber setting.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, Professor Westwood, is portrayed with intensity, focused on an unseen task, holding scissors. His concentrated expression and downward gaze evoke a sense of solemn introspection.

Technique & Style

Herkomer employs chiaroscuro, contrasting light and dark to create depth and draw attention to the subject. The painting aligns with post-impressionist tendencies, though grounded in realistic representation.

History & Provenance

Created in 1896, the work is now part of the Ashmolean Museum's collection, reflecting Herkomer's dual reputation as a portraitist and social realist.

Context

While Herkomer is known for depicting the poor, this portrait highlights his skill in capturing the character of individuals from other walks of life, in this case, an academic or professional figure.

Legacy

As part of Herkomer's later work, *Professor John Obadiah Westwood* contributes to the broader legacy of a versatile artist who transitioned from painting to pioneering film direction.

Artist & collection

Artist

Hubert von Herkomer

Sir Hubert von Herkomer (born as Hubert Herkomer; 26 May 1849 – 31 March 1914) was a Bavarian-born British painter, pioneering film-director, and composer.