George Caleb Bingham

Library Journal

Some critics consider the paintings created by George Bingham (1811-79) to be the ultimate expression of the American character rendered in oils on canvas. Most famous for his depiction of life on the Mississippi and of Midwestern political gatherings, Bingham reached his artistic zenith from 1845 to 1855. He enjoyed success during his lifetime, in part due to his association with the American Art Union, and his reputation has hardly faltered since his ``rediscovery'' in the 1930s. Five art historians here explore aspects of Bingham's complex personality and varied (and uneven) output. Through a careful consideration of the historical record, they have put to rest the prevalent notion that these seemingly simple and democratic paintings are a direct reflection of Bingham's personality. This reasonably priced and handsome catalog, with glorious color plates, will satisfy a lay as well as scholarly audience. Highly recommended.-- Kathleen Eagen Johnson, Historic Hudson Valley, Tarrytown, N.Y.