Charles Bird King

Style: Mannerism;

Place: Newport

Born: 1785

Death: 1862

Biography:

Early Life and Training

Charles Bird King

, a prominent American portrait artist, was born on September 26, 1785, in Newport, Rhode Island. He was the only child of Deborah Bird and Captain Zebulon King, an American Revolutionary veteran. After his father's untimely death at the hands of Native Americans near Marietta, Ohio, when Charles was just four years old, he and his mother returned to Newport.

Artistic Development

At 15, King began his artistic journey under the tutelage of portrait painter Edward Savage in New York. He later moved to London to study with the renowned Benjamin West at the Royal Academy for seven years. This exposure to European art styles significantly influenced his work. Upon returning to the United States due to the War of 1812, King worked in Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Richmond before settling in Washington, D.C., attracted by its economic opportunities.

Notable Works and Style

King's portraits of Native American leaders and tribesmen are particularly noteworthy. Some of his most celebrated works include:

John C. Calhoun, Secretary of War, showcasing the politician's ambitious spirit (currently at the Chrysler Museum of Art in Norfolk, United States).
Kee-Shes-Wa, A Fox Chief, a testament to his skill in capturing Native American leaders.
Jack-O-Pa, a Chippeway [Chippewa] chief, another example of his portraiture expertise.
TEH-RO-HON, AN IOWAY WARRIOR, reflecting his ability to capture the essence of Native American warriors.
Co-sne-boin, a portrait that showcases his mastery over various subjects.

Legacy and Impact

King's economic success can be attributed to his ability to socialize with the wealthy and relate to well-educated politicians. His patrons included prominent figures like John Quincy Adams, Henry Clay, James Monroe, and Daniel Webster. Despite never marrying, King lived in Washington until his death on March 18, 1862. He left behind a collection of paintings, books, and prints to the Redwood Library and Athenaeum. Key Points: * Elected into the National Academy of Design as an Honorary Academician in 1827. * Known for his traditional European mannerisms adapted to Native American subjects. * His work is characterized by a blend of Dutch and Northern European influences, reflecting his time at the Royal Academy.

Explore more of Charles Bird King's works on Wikioo.org.
Learn about other artists like Moroni, Giovanni Battista, known for his realistic portraits, on Wikioo.org's Artist Page.
Discover the evolution of Western art through the centuries at Wahoo Art Timeline.