Francis William Edmonds 1841

This pencil drawing, "Francis W. Edmonds," was created in 1841 by American artist Asher Brown Durand. Durand was a prominent member of the Hudson River School, known for its romantic depictions of the American landscape. However, this portrait shows Durand’s mastery of figural work. The detail of the sitter’s clothing and facial features, rendered in delicate, precise lines, reveals Durand’s skill as a draftsman. This intimate portrait is a fine example of 19th-century American art, showcasing a shift in artistic focus toward realism and social commentary.