The artwork entitled “Portrait of Nathaniel Allen” is a distinguished piece painted by John Singleton Copley in the year 1763. Executed in oil on canvas, this portrait adheres to the Neoclassical art movement and typifies the portrait genre.
In this refined depiction, a gentleman, presumably Nathaniel Allen, is presented in formal attire, embodying the dignity and grace typical of 18th-century portraits. The subject is seated, sporting a voluminous, dark coat adorned with ornate buttons, which accentuates the subject’s status and wealth. His powdered wig, a common aspect of the period’s fashion, frames a composed and attentive expression. The man is positioned against a plain, dark background, which serves to emphasize his presence. Resting on a polished wooden table beside him are several large books and a stack of letters, suggesting intellectual pursuits or administrative responsibilities. The meticulous attention to detail in the fabric and textures enhances the overall realism, demonstrating Copley’s adeptness in capturing both the physical likeness and the social standing of his subject. The interplay of light and shadow subtly highlights the subject’s features and attire, further contributing to the portrait’s depth and elegance.
