Governor Charles M. Croswell
(1877-1881)

2017
Joshua Adam Risner
Oil on linen

Though this portrait of Governor Charles Croswell appears to be from the late 19th century, it is actually a more recent commission by the Michigan State Capitol Commission. Contemporary artist Joshua Adam Risner recreated Croswell’s likeness as part of a project to fill in holes in the Capitol’s portrait collection. Risner painted this “missing” governor based on a series of historic photographs, as no period portrait of the man is known to exist.

In order to help Croswell’s portrait blend into the collection, Risner worked in a style appropriate to the 19th century. His brushstrokes are not visible, and his choice of colors and clothing for the sitter are of the period. Croswell’s face is slightly idealized, and his gaze is thoughtful and serene. In lieu of a full body portrait, Risner has instead created a bust of the governor and left the background completely plain. This emphasizes his facial features and displays Risner’s skill at rendering even, realistic skin tones. Along with the portrait, Risner also created the custom-built, period-inspired frame that surrounds the piece.