The artwork titled “Samuel Verplanck,” painted by John Singleton Copley in 1771, is an oil on canvas piece representative of the Neoclassicism art movement. This portrait, measuring 63.5 by 76.2 centimeters, captures the likeness of Samuel Verplanck with meticulous detail and a refined aesthetic typical of the period.
In the artwork, the subject is depicted in a formal pose, dressed in period-appropriate attire which includes a red coat with a high collar. His posture and expression exude an air of calm confidence and aristocratic bearing. The background is understated, allowing the focus to remain firmly on the subject, highlighting Copley’s skill in portraiture by emphasizing the textures and contours of the face and clothing. The light subtly illuminates the figure, creating a balanced and harmonious composition that accentuates the dignified and solemn nature of the portrait.
