Collection: Charles Willson Peale

Charles Willson Peale (1741-1827) was an American painter, naturalist, and museum proprietor who played an important role in the development of American art and science. Peale's works were characterized by their realism and their attention to detail, and he was particularly interested in portraiture, often painting prominent figures of the era, including George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. In addition to his artistic pursuits, Peale was also a noted naturalist, and he founded the first natural history museum in the United States. Peale's contributions to the fields of art and science were highly regarded during his lifetime, and he was celebrated for his versatility and his commitment to advancing knowledge in both fields. Today, Peale's works are celebrated for their beauty and their contribution to the development of American art. Some of his most famous works include "The Staircase Group" and "The Artist in His Museum."