William Thornton by Gilbert Stuart. A half-length portrait of a man with silver-white hair and a dark brown coat, seated in a red armchair against a background of heavy red curtains and a light-filled sky.

William Thornton

Gilbert Stuart

1804 · Oil Paint, Canvas

A refined 1804 portrait of architect William Thornton, masterfully executed by Gilbert Stuart.

$243

For the selected configuration

From $129

6 frame sizes

Frame size
Frame color
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Paper type
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Where it works

A weightier piece with steady character with softened warm notes — holds a formal wall with confidence.

Often works in
Dining Room · Library · Study
Placement
Strongest where a vertical wall can take more presence
Walls
Benefits from light or mid-tone surroundings
Color notes
Charcoal black, Deep burgundy, Olive green

About the piece

Painted in 1804 by renowned American portraitist Gilbert Stuart, this work depicts William Thornton, the original architect of the U.S. Capitol. The painting showcases Stuart's signature luminous skin tones and confident brushwork, contrasted against a dramatic composition of rich red drapery and an airy, atmospheric sky.