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Albert Murray 1906-1992

here are those who believe that the greatest of all American portrait painters — after John Singer Sargent — was Albert Murray, the legendary New York artist (1906-1992) who created some of the most memorable and effective portraits ever painted in this country. An Albert Murray portrait was characterized by consummate draftsmanship, exquisite color, flawless craftsmanship — resulting in a truly penetrating rendition of the personality of the subject. Here are four outstanding examples of Al Murray's magnificent art:

2. Thomas J. Watson, Sr. This famous painting is Albert Murray at his quintessential best. The brilliantly rendered head contrasts sharply with the dark background. The brush technique is careful and the execution is deliberate and finished — very few bravura flourishes here. The subject has been studying a report, and, pausing, he removes his reading glasses and contemplates the viewer. There is enormous dignity and gravity in the expression. The painter would do well to study the strong, simple lighting on the head, and the eloquent rendering of the detail of the chair. This is the classic work of a master portraitist who knows exactly what he is doing. Oil on canvas, 1977 40 x 36 inches Collection, IBM Corporation page 1 2 3 4

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