Mr. Day c. 1835

"Mr. Day", painted around 1835 by American folk artist Ammi Phillips, depicts a gentleman holding a newspaper. The portrait is characteristic of Phillips' work, featuring a simplified style with bold outlines and flat areas of color. The subject's clothing, particularly the crisp white shirt and dark coat, are painted with meticulous detail, while the background is rendered in a simple, muted palette. This work is a testament to Phillips' ability to capture the individuality and social standing of his subjects. The painting's focus on the subject's hands, holding a newspaper, further underscores the importance of literacy and news in 19th-century American society. This work is a prime example of early American portraiture, emphasizing the growing importance of the individual and the rise of a burgeoning middle class in the United States.