The Thinker; Portrait of Louis N. Kenton 1900

Thomas Eakins painted this portrait of Louis N. Kenton with oil on canvas, a traditional, highly refined medium, yet Eakins imbues it with an unvarnished truth. Look closely, and you’ll see how the material itself contributes to the effect. Oil paint allows for a rich spectrum of dark tones, masterfully blended to create the somber mood. Notice how the texture of the brushstrokes catches the light, adding depth and volume to Kenton's figure. The clothing, especially the cut of the suit, speaks volumes about Kenton's social standing. There’s a clear understanding of tailoring in this portrait, the skill of the artisan translated into brushstrokes. Eakins knew how to observe this level of detail. Yet, the way Kenton stands, hands in pockets, looking down, suggests the weight of thought, perhaps the burden of modern life. Ultimately, Eakins uses the most traditional of means to give us a portrait that’s more than just a likeness. It’s a study of character, class, and the human condition, captured in layers of pigment.