Object Record
Images
Metadata
Catalog Number |
2010.13 |
Object Name |
Engraving |
Title |
Portrait of Nathaniel Chapman |
Artist |
Neagle, John |
Artist 2 |
Kelly, T. |
Date |
after 1831 |
Description |
Three-quarter length engraving of a standing figure facing forward, his head turned slightly to his left, his right hand holding a book standing on its end and his left index finger pointing, resting upon an open book upon a tapestry covered table. Figure has short light hair and wears a long coat, a dark buttoned jacket, a neckcloth, and a cravat. Directly behind him, to his left, is an upholstered chair. A tapestry is in the left background and a row of classic columns in the left background with an open archway set in center back. "Engraved by T. Kelly, from the original picture painted by J. Neagle for the Hall of the Medical Institute of Philadelphia./ N. Chapman, M.D./ Professor of the Institutes & Practice of Physical & Clinical Practice in the University of Pennsylvania &c. &c. &c./ Entered according to the Act of Congress, in the year one thousand eight hundred and thirty one by John Neagle, in the Clerk's office of the District Court of the United States in & for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania." |
Label |
Nathaniel Chapman was a physician, medical educator, and noted member of the APS. He received a medical degree in 1801 from the University of Pennsylvania and later became chair of theory and practice of medicine at the University of Pennsylvania Medical School. While publishing a number of medical textbooks and lectures, Chapman also founded the "Philadelphia Journal of Medical and Physical Sciences," now known as the "American Journal of the Medical Sciences." In 1848, Chapman became the first President of the American Medical Association. He served as President of the APS from 1846 to 1849. Chapman was painted by John Neagle, a well-known artist in Philadelphia, as part of his project to paint portraits of the medical faculty at the University of Pennsylvania. Planning on nine portraits, which would have been engraved and sold to the public, Neagle stopped after the first two (this portrait and that of William Dewees, 2010.12) because of lack of public support. This portrait was reproduced by engraver Thomas Kelly. The original Neagle portrait is no longer extant. |
Medium |
Engraving |
Dimensions |
H-15.75 W-10.25 inches |
Credit line |
American Philosophical Society |
Search Terms |
19th century nineteenth century physician medicine APS President |