Whistling Boy c. 1870s

"Whistling Boy" is an oil painting on canvas, created in the 1870s by American artist Frank Duveneck. Duveneck was known for his mastery of realism and his ability to capture the essence of his subjects. This portrait features a young boy in a simple hat, with a focused gaze and a slightly open mouth, suggesting he is about to whistle. The boy's facial features are meticulously detailed, while the background is rendered with a more simplified, almost impressionistic style, highlighting the boy's presence. This painting is a fine example of Duveneck's mature style, capturing the charm of everyday life with an effortless and poignant brushstroke.