Portrait of the Artist
George Augustus Baker1874
The Walters Art Museum
Baltimore, United States
The son of a miniaturist, Baker spent almost his whole life in New York City, except for a trip to Italy in around 1846. He studied at the National Academy of Design. He was one of the most sought after portraitists of his time, but also painted ideal pieces, such as "Love at First Sight," and "The May Queen" (present location unknown). The Walters Art Museum owns 8 works by this artist; his works can also be found at the Brooklyn Museum of Art.
This self-portrait of the artist was acquired by William T. Walters during the artist's lifetime, and he seems to have found favor with the collector. He also portrayed Mrs. Ellen Harper Walters, William's wife, and their daughter, Jennie (see WAM 37.2637 and WAM 37.1207).
- Title: Portrait of the Artist
- Creator: George Augustus Baker (American, 1821-1880)
- Date Created: 1874
- External Link: For more information about this and thousands of other works of art in the Walters Art Museum collection, please visit art.thewalters.org
- Roles: Painter: George Augustus Baker (American, 1821-1880)
- Provenance: William T. Walters, Baltimore, prior to 1878, by purchase [from the artist]; Henry Walters, Baltimore, 1894, by inheritance; Walters Art Museum, 1931, by bequest.
- Object Type: oil paintings; portraits
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Inscriptions: [Signature] Lower left: G.A. Baker; [Date] Lower left: 1874 [Stamp] on back of canvas: Edward Dechaun / Artist Emporium / 708 / Broadway New York.
- Dimensions: H: 27 3/16 x W: 22 1/8 in. (69 x 56.2 cm)
- Credit Line: Acquired by William T. Walters, before 1878
- Classification: Painting & Drawing
- Accession Number: 37.66
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