Charles Henry Granger
Charles Henry Granger
Place: Saco
Born: 1812
Death: 1893
Biography:
Early Life and Education
Charles Henry Granger, an American itinerant painter, was born on June 13, 1812. His early life was marked by a brief stint at West Point, where he studied for two-and-a-half years before returning to Saco. It was here that he began teaching himself piano, drawing, and painting.
Artistic Pursuits and Travels
In 1839, Granger married Mary Eaton, and shortly thereafter, he embarked on a three-year journey to seek further instruction in painting and establish connections with artists and clients. This period saw him visit various cities, including Portsmouth, New Hampshire, Newburyport, Boston, Massachusetts, New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Hagerstown, Maryland, and Washington.
Artistic Output and Legacy
Granger's travels are well-documented in his diaries and letters. Despite receiving some portrait commissions, he had to supplement his income through other means, including leading a church choir, teaching art, tuning pianos, and leading a band. According to his sketchbook, between 1832 and 1845, he executed approximately 187 to 250 oil paintings, two sculptures, various poems, musical compositions, and more.
- George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, and John James Audubon are among the notable figures Granger painted.
- The Smithsonian American Art Museum lists only three paintings by Granger in their comprehensive inventory of American paintings executed before 1914.
- Granger's work can be found in various collections, including the National Gallery of Art and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Later Life and Death
Granger continued to paint until late in his life, executing "flower pieces" and portraits often copied from daguerreotypes. He died in Saco on September 8, 1893, after a series of illnesses. View more works by Charles Henry Granger at https://Wikioo.org/@/Charles-Henry-Granger Explore the world of art with Wikioo.org's extensive collection: https://Wikioo.org/Art.nsf/All-Popular-Artists