Schuyler Colfax 1868

Editor: This is a print of Schuyler Colfax by John Sartain, currently held at the Harvard Art Museums. The stark contrasts in light and shadow give it a very formal feel. What do you see in terms of composition and technique? Curator: Note the oval framing device within the rectangular sheet, a common strategy in portraiture. The engraver’s skill is evident in the modulation of tone, particularly in rendering the textures of hair and beard. How does the artist's use of light contribute to your experience? Editor: It really sculpts the face, giving it dimension. I hadn't noticed how strategically light and dark were employed. Curator: Precisely. Sartain’s manipulation of light and shade creates a structured image, highlighting the subject's presence and revealing the engraver’s artistry. Editor: It's amazing how much detail is conveyed through a limited tonal range. Thanks for pointing that out! Curator: A keen observation.