Artwork
Portrait of a Man Holding a Book
Portrait of a Man Holding a Book is a pastel drawing by the Romanticist artist Micah Williams. It dates from 1823 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Created around 1823, this pastel drawing by Micah Williams presents a seated gentleman clutching a brown book. The figure is rendered in dark clothing—a black coat over a white shirt—against a subdued green‑gray backdrop. The work is executed on a paper sheet that has been reinforced with several layers, the outermost being newsprint bearing the year 1823.
Subject & Meaning
The sitter, whose hair is neatly arranged and eyes meet the viewer directly, is portrayed in a contemplative pose, suggesting literacy or scholarly pursuits. The presence of the book in his left hand reinforces an association with study or intellectual activity, while his formal attire conveys a sense of respectability typical of early nineteenth‑century portraiture.
Technique & Style
Williams employed soft pastel pigments on paper, a medium that allows for delicate tonal transitions and a gentle modeling of form. The layered paper support, culminating in a newsprint backing, contributes to the drawing’s stability and subtle texture. The muted palette and emphasis on mood align the piece with the Romantic sensibility prevalent in American art of the period.
History & Provenance
The drawing bears a date on its newsprint backing, indicating its completion in 1823. While specific details of its ownership history are scarce, the work is attributed to Micah Williams, an itinerant portraitist active in the early United States, whose practice included both oil paintings and paper drawings for a regional clientele.
Artist & collection
