James Courtney

James Courtney

James Earl
Charleston, South Carolina 1794–1796
Oil on canvas
71.99
Friends of the Museum Purchase

The reputation of the artist also influenced commissions. At least three members of the Courtney family had their portraits painted by British artist James Earl, including this portrait of James Courtney. Earl’s previous work in New England and Great Britain, and later with British Loyalists who remained in Charleston after the war, may have contributed to his increased commissions in South Carolina. His training at the Royal Academy and the high quality of this work certainly contributed to his success.