John Neagle
Portrait of Henry Clay (1777-1852), painted for his election campaign, 1842
Oil on canvas
28 x 22 inches (71.1 x 55.9 cm)
Philip Mould & Co.
To view all current artworks for sale visit philipmould.com In 1842 the National Clay Club of Philadelphia commissioned the eminent portrait painter John Neagle to produce a full-length portrait...
To view all current artworks for sale visit philipmould.com
In 1842 the National Clay Club of Philadelphia commissioned the eminent portrait painter John Neagle to produce a full-length portrait of its patron, Henry Clay. The motivation behind the commission was the critical need to produce an image of the great politician which could be used in the Presidential election campaign of 1842-44. Previous attempts at a likeness had proved unsatisfactory, because as Harriet Martineau commented, No one has succeeded in catching the subtile (sic) expression of placid kindness, mingled with astuteness, which becomes visible to the eyes of those who are in daily intercourse with him.(l) Neagle attracted the best patronage in Philadelphia and was considered one of the finest portrait painters of the day, being likened in ability to Gilbert Stuart.
In 1842 the National Clay Club of Philadelphia commissioned the eminent portrait painter John Neagle to produce a full-length portrait of its patron, Henry Clay. The motivation behind the commission was the critical need to produce an image of the great politician which could be used in the Presidential election campaign of 1842-44. Previous attempts at a likeness had proved unsatisfactory, because as Harriet Martineau commented, No one has succeeded in catching the subtile (sic) expression of placid kindness, mingled with astuteness, which becomes visible to the eyes of those who are in daily intercourse with him.(l) Neagle attracted the best patronage in Philadelphia and was considered one of the finest portrait painters of the day, being likened in ability to Gilbert Stuart.
Provenance
Colonel Clayton McMichael, PhiladelphiaBy family descent to Norton McMichael, Pennsylvannia Purchased from an agent of the family 1993
Exhibitions
Engraved843 John Sartain (1808-97)
1844 Albert Newsam (1809-64)
1844 William Warner Jr. (c.1813-48)