Governor Austin Blair

Alvah Bradish employs Neoclassicism in this portrayal of Governor Austin Blair. The large column behind Blair, a hallmark of this style, nods to ancient classical architecture. The muted, yet colorful, reds and blues used in the portrait’s background suggest a Venetian influence, likely acquired by observing the work of early American painters like William Page and Washington Allston. These artists looked back at the Italian master Titian’s work, mimicking his bias to favor color over line (colorito over disegno). The Americans further imitated this style through the application of thin layers of transparent brown glazes, which served to harmonize a painting’s colors and give it an older, more “European” feel. Over time, these layers have darkened, providing a challenge for present-day conservators.

Blair holds a proclamation calling for volunteers to fight in the war in his right hand. The flag behind him and the sword in front of him nod to his role as the “Civil War Governor,” while the Michigan coat-of-arms is included beside him. The artist’s signature can be found along the edge of the upholstered red chair in the background. The frame of this piece, once overpainted to look bronze, has since been restored to its original “water gilded” state. Water gilding is an ancient technique for applying gold leaf. It is commonly used on wooden frames, statues, furniture, and in restoration.