Portrait of Dr. Joseph Leidy, II 

Thomas Eakins made this portrait of Dr. Joseph Leidy II, although the exact date is unknown. It uses oil on canvas to capture the sitter in a formal, yet intimate setting, typical of late 19th-century American portraiture. Eakins was a realist painter who often portrayed figures from the scientific and medical communities of Philadelphia. He was known for his commitment to depicting the human body accurately, informed by his own anatomical studies. This portrait reflects the values of that era, emphasizing intellect, professionalism, and social standing, with its dark suit and patterned tie. Consider how institutions like the medical academy and art schools shaped the subject of the painting as well as the artistic approach. To fully appreciate this work, we might consider researching the social networks of scientists and artists in Philadelphia at the time, alongside archival material related to Eakins' artistic training and his relationship with the medical community. Art like this reflects the cultural values of its time, influenced by professional institutions.