Portrait of Professor Benjamin H. Rand 1874

Thomas Eakins' 1874 painting "Portrait of Professor Benjamin H. Rand" depicts the professor seated at his desk, accompanied by a black cat. The work, now located at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, showcases Eakins' signature realism, capturing the subject's likeness with meticulous detail. The dim lighting and focus on the professor's study create an intimate atmosphere, offering a glimpse into the life of a scholar. The inclusion of a cat adds a touch of whimsy and underscores the informal nature of the setting. This portrait demonstrates Eakins' ability to portray both the physical and intellectual aspects of his subjects, making it a valuable insight into the life of a 19th-century academic.