The American School

Art Historical Context

**The American School** by Matthew Pratt, painted in 1765, is a captivating oil-on-canvas group portrait (36 x 50¼ inches) that captures the spirit of early American artistry. Housed in the Metropolitan Museum Art's American Wing, work depicts a gathering of male artists—likely Pratt himself—in what appears to be a studio setting. The title evokes the formation of a nascent "American school" of painting during the colonial period, just a decade before the Revolution, showcasing men deeply engaged in their craft. Pratt, a skilled portraitist influenced by his London training, uses the rich textures and luminous quality of oil on canvas to render detailed faces and intimate interactions, emphasizing camaraderie and intellectual pursuit. This medium was prized in the 18th century for its versatility in conveying realism and depth, making it ideal for conversation pieces like this one. Historically significant as one of the earliest visual records of American artists at work, the painting highlights the cultural shift toward a homegrown creative identity, blending European techniques with colonial ambition. Donated by Samuel P. Avery in 1897, it remains a treasured emblem of America's artistic awakening, inviting visitors to ponder the roots of innovation in the New World.