Artwork
Richard Henry Lee
Richard Henry Lee is a print by the Impressionist artist Max Rosenthal. It dates from 1900 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
About this work
Overview
Max Rosenthal’s print of Richard Henry Lee, dated around 1900, is part of the Cleveland Museum of Art’s collection. Rendered in monochrome, the image presents a dignified likeness of the American statesman, framed by a simple dark oval that isolates the figure from the background.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait depicts Lee, a prominent figure of the Revolutionary era, with white hair and a composed demeanor. Dressed in a dark coat over a light shirt, his slightly turned head and calm expression convey a sense of measured authority, reflecting his role in early American politics.
Technique & Style
Rosenthal employs delicate gradations of tone to model the subject’s facial features and the drapery of his clothing, creating a subtle three‑dimensional effect. The use of soft shading and careful line work aligns with the chiaroscuro tradition, emphasizing the contrast between illuminated planes and shadowed areas without resorting to harsh outlines.
History & Provenance
Created at the turn of the twentieth century, the print entered the Cleveland Museum of Art’s holdings through acquisition (specific details of the purchase are not recorded in the source). Its presence in the museum underscores the institution’s commitment to representing early American portraiture within its broader collection.
Artist & collection
