Michelangelo

Thomas Browne Cornell

Thomas Cornell was known for his printed portraits, often of noted hisotorical figures. Here he depicts Michelangelo in a style that borrows the Italian master's own, emphasizing the sculptural qualities of the face. This is one of two images done in 1964/'65 depicting Michelangelo, the other being printed on buff wove and including an ink wash along the bottom of the plate. In this classic portrait, Michelangelo peers directly at the viewer, his expression intelligent and discerning.

Cornell appears to have been greatly influenced by European Old Masters, applying the techniques and theories of his predecessors to his contemporary subject matter, from social struggle to daily life and to depictions of animals.