Man Holding a Book [recto] c. 1815

This sepia-toned drawing by Thomas Sully, dated c. 1815, depicts a man seated, holding a book in his lap. The subject's face is rendered with detailed strokes, capturing his contemplative expression. Sully was a prominent American portrait artist known for his realistic and expressive style. This drawing is a testament to his skill in capturing the essence of his subjects. The work demonstrates Sully's early mastery of drawing, which he would later refine to achieve great success in portraiture.