Artwork

Master Charles William Park

Master Charles William Park, by Mather Brown, oil, 1793
Master Charles William Park, by Mather Brown, oil, 1793

Master Charles William Park is an oil painting by the Neoclassicist artist Mather Brown. It dates from 1793 and is held in the collection of the Detroit Institute of Arts.

About this work

Overview

Master Charles William Park is an 1793 oil painting by Mather Brown, depicting a young boy in a refined outdoor setting, characteristic of the neoclassical emphasis on elegant portraiture.

Subject & Meaning

The subject is Charles William Park, portrayed as a refined young gentleman. His attire—a dark blue coat with gold buttons, white shirt, and black pants—and the lush outdoor backdrop convey elegance and sophistication.

Technique & Style

Brown employed neoclassical portraiture techniques, utilizing color and composition to achieve depth and dimensionality. The work features chiaroscuro, a method of using strong contrasts between light and dark to create a sense of volume.

History & Provenance

Created in 1793 by Mather Brown (1761-1831), an American-born painter active in England. The painting is part of the Detroit Institute of Arts collection.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Mather Brown

Artist

Mather Brown

Mather Brown (baptized 11 October 1761 – 25 May 1831) was an American painter who was born in Boston, Massachusetts and was active in England.