Artwork
John Richards Triplett
John Richards Triplett is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Charles Balthazar Julien Févret de Saint-Mémin. It dates from 1808 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
This painting shows a portrait of John Richards Triplett.
He's dressed formally and looks straight at us.
The artist made this print in 1808, and it's interesting because Triplett was quite young then, born in 1785, which makes him about 23 years old in the portrait.
To learn more about the artist who created this portrait, look up artist: Saint-Mémin, Charles B. J. Févret de.
Overview
Created in 1808, this black-and-white print portrays John Richards Triplett, who was born in 1785 and thus appears in his early twenties. The image presents the sitter in formal attire, gazing directly at the viewer, a compositional choice that emphasizes his presence and status.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait captures Triplett at a youthful stage of his life, suggesting a moment of personal or professional emergence. His direct stare and dignified dress convey confidence and social standing, typical of early‑19th‑century portraiture intended to affirm identity and reputation.
Technique & Style
Executed as a mezzotint combined with engraving, the work employs fine black tones on wove paper that has been mounted onto a brown‑toned backing. The mezzotint technique allows for subtle gradations of shade, while the engraved lines provide definition, together creating a nuanced, textural surface.
History & Provenance
The print was produced by Charles B. J. Févret de Saint‑Mémin, a French artist known for his portrait prints. Though originally printed on wove paper, the piece was later affixed to a brown wove sheet, a common preservation practice that enhances its visual depth and durability.
Artist & collection
Artist
Charles Balthazar Julien Févret de Saint-Mémin
Charles Balthazar Julien Févret de Saint-Mémin (French pronunciation: ; 1770–1852) was a French portrait painter and museum director.
