Governor Aaron T. Bliss
(1901-1905)

c. 1905
Painted by Percy Ives
Oil on Canvas

This portrait depicts Governor Aaron T. Bliss in a classic full-length pose. His left hand rests on the edge of his jacket, while his right hand holds a rolled up document at his side. Bliss looks into the distance, not acknowledging the viewer. His hands and face are painted naturalistically, and they are highlighted by the bright white of the governor’s shirt and the document he holds. The pin on the Bliss’ lapel is that of the Military Order of the Loyal Legion of the United States. Behind him, a small side table in the Eastlake style holds books, an inkwell, and a feather pen.

Though Percy learned from his father, Louis T. Ives, there are marked differences between the two artists’ approaches. While the elder Ives favors a more classical style and does not leave behind visible traces of his brush, Percy instead opts for a more modern, “alla prima” approach, using loose, spontaneous brushstrokes that are meant to be seen. In this painting of Governor Bliss, such brushstrokes are most clearly seen in the background, though they are also present in the sitter’s clothing and hair.