The artwork titled “David Pike Watts” was created by artist Charles Turner in 1817. This portrait is aligned with the Romanticism art movement, which typically emphasized emotion and individualism.
The image depicts a stately portrait of a gentleman, presumably David Pike Watts. The subject is shown in a half-length pose, directly facing the viewer with a calm and composed expression. He is dressed in attire indicative of the early 19th century, featuring a dark coat with high lapels and multiple buttons, and a white cravat tied around his collar. His hair is styled in a fashion characteristic of the period, with considerable volume and swept backward. The background is unadorned, ensuring the focus remains on the subject. There is a sense of dignity and grace about the man that is typical of portraitures during the Romantic period, aiming to convey the inner character and status of the individual. In the portrait’s lower part, the name “David Pike Watts Esq.” is noted, suggesting the esteemed social standing of the subject.
Below the portrait itself, there is a clear inscription that reads: “David Pike Watts Esq.” and below that, additional text, possibly detailing the artist’s name, publisher, or other relevant information regarding the production of the portrait. The artwork, being a product of the Romantic era, is not just a depiction of the subject’s appearance but seeks to capture an essence of his personality and societal influence.
