In thus ridiculing the boastful magniloquence of American journal- ists
on the subject of painting, we by no means desire to disparage the merits of individual artists. There are several American painters of talent now in this country, whose productions are highly promising.
Oscoon's portrait of the President Van Buren, in the Academy exile bition, is a very clever picture ; and the head is full of character and meaning. HEALY'S portraits in the Suffolk Street exhibition gave strong indications of talent. Some interesting particulars of the early life of both these painters appeared lately in the Athenmunt, which show the strong bentof theirgenius towards art. A third, Mr. Sor.t.v—who, though an Englishman born, is an American citizen-has been honoured by Queen VICTORIA with several sittings fora half-length portrait, in her royal robes ; which be has just completed. The picture is exhibited by HODGSON and Git AYES ; who will engrave and publish it in mezzo- tint. It represents the Queen in the act of ascending the throne, and looking round over her shoulder, presenting her full face to view. The likeness is the most accurate in feature of all that have been painted of her Majesty : the eyes are very lifelike; the mouth is poorly drawn, and its expression feeble and uncertain; but the general character of the physiognomy is true to nature-though slightly deficient in animation and sweetness. The painting is broad, firm, and clear ; but too smooth, and not very solid ; and the tone of colour, though pure and warm, has too much of red. It is, however, a very clever picture, and reflects great credit on the American artist.
After all, this is but a mere imitation of conventional English art- the brown spot of shadow under the nose is in full force. But we i
must not yet look for originality n American painting : the genius of the people has not been bong enough under Oa influence of the fine arts to receive the impress of national character. The next century will be time enough to talk about a History of the Rise and Progress of the Fine Arts in the United States.
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