Object ID	N0218.1961
Title	Robert Fulton
Artist	West, Benjamin
Object Name	Painting
Early Date	1806
Exhibit label line3	Robert Fulton (1765-1815) was a proud, energetic, ambitious man with an interest in virtually everything. He is famous today for his pioneering role in the invention of the steamboat, but he was also an accomplished artist and a political visionary. In the background of this likeness Fulton's recent invention, the torpedo, is depicted in full explosion. Benjamin West painted Fulton's portrait while in London. West became King George III's official history painter and supported any American artist who asked for assistance. He influenced two generations of American artists including Charles Willson Peale (1741-1827), Samuel F.B. Morse (1791-1872), and Washington Allston (1779-1843). As a leading painter in 18th-century Europe, West made stylistic innovations in neoclassicism, romanticism, and the use of modern dress in history paintings.
Description	Portrait of Robert Fulton. Marks: Lower front right: "B. West, 1806"
Classification	Academic Art--Painting/Drawing--Portraits--Human
Dimensions	H-36 W-28 inches
Material	Oil on canvas
Makers mark	Lower front right: "B. West, 1806"

Prior written permission is required for any reproduction, redistribution, publication, or other use of the images in any media, including but not limited to, printed or electronic media. Contact the Office of the Registrar, New York State Historical Association, PO Box 800, Cooperstown, NY 13326, (607) 547-1444, to request permission.    
Last modified on: November 04, 2005