Charles H. Sisson 1850

Joseph Goodhue Chandler's 1850 painting "Charles H. Sisson" is a portrait of a young boy, likely a child from the artist's community, standing in a rural setting, possibly his backyard. The portrait is an example of American folk art, highlighting a child's innocence with the boy holding a stick and pulling a small wagon, a common pastime for children at the time. Chandler’s detail in capturing the young boy's attire, especially his plaid shirt, is a hallmark of his signature style, often referred to as “primitive" in art history. The painting offers a glimpse into the lives of 19th-century American children, highlighting their simple pleasures and the importance of family and community.