Rev. John Brodhead Romeyn, D. D. 1820

This is an engraving of Rev. John Brodhead Romeyn, D. D., made by Asher Brown Durand. The composition is dominated by a play of light and shadow, structuring the figure within the frame. Durand’s masterful use of line and texture creates a palpable sense of volume and depth. The formal elements—the subject’s gaze, the intricate rendering of his garments, and the subtle gradations of tone—invite us to consider the cultural codes at play. The evenness of the plate gives the image a classical feel. It is as if Durand is subtly questioning the very nature of representation, hinting at the constructedness of identity and the power dynamics inherent in portraiture. In its totality, this engraving prompts us to reflect on the layered meanings embedded within its form, inviting a continuous dialogue between the artwork and its viewers.