Etching Portrait of Lewis Latimer
Drawing
A detailed engraving of an older African American, depicting Lewis Howard Latimer, as drawn by his relative, Frank Holbrook. He is depicted with a serious and contemplative expression, looking slightly to the viewer's right. Latimer is drawn with deep-set eyes, a prominent nose, and a strong jawline. Wrinkles on his forehead and around his eyes suggest advanced age. He is wearing a collared shirt and a loosely tied necktie. The portrait is rendered in fine crosshatching and line work, creating depth and shading. The background is left largely blank, emphasizing the subject.
Ink - Black
Ink on paper, possibly an etching or lithographic print. Frank Holbrook was a member of the extended Latimer family, the grandnephew of Lewis Latimer’s sister Margaret (Maggie) Latimer Hawley. In Winifred Norman’s notes from a 1969 with Frank Holbrook, he reminisced that “One day—Lewis was sitting in his chair at home, and had fallen asleep in a chair—Frank did a rapid sketch of him (did this often)....”
Latimer Family Papers (1870-1996 ) [QPL Full Collection]
Signed "F. Holbrook"
Below the image on the left: "L. Latimer" Below the image on the right: "F.C. Holbrook"