Billy Emerson

John Brewster (1766–1845)
Dateabout 1810
MediumOil on canvas laid down on panel
Dimensions29 1/2 x 24 13/16 in. (75 x 63 cm)
DescriptionBorn deaf and mute to a respected physician in Connecticut, John Brewster began his study of painting in adulthood with a provincial master. Brewster eventually became a successful portraitist and is today acknowledged as one of the most gifted of the early New England itinerant painters.
Billy Emerson (1765–1835) of Topsfield, Massachusetts, was a merchant and extensive property owner, and this portrait captures his charming bravado. Portraits by Brewster of Emerson’s parents, are also in the Athenæum’s collection.
Gift of Mrs. Douwe Yntema in honor of her aunt, Miss Ester B. Proctor, 1988
Object NumberUR231