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biography of ezra ames, a noted artist from the united states (1768-1836)

ezra ames, a prominent portrait painter in albany, new york, during the late 18th and early 19th centuries, left an indelible mark on american art. born on may 5, 1768, in framingham, massachusetts, ames' life is a testament to his prolific career, with over 700 attributed portraits.

early life and career

ames moved to worcester, massachusetts, in 1790, and married zipporah wood in 1794. his relocation to albany, new york, marked the beginning of his successful portrait painting career. notably, he painted prominent figures such as governor george clinton and alexander hamilton.

artistic style and contributions

• ezra ames's work had a popular appeal, characterized by its sure and fluent ease of brush, keen characterization, and pure, fresh coloring.
• his portrait of governor george clinton, exhibited at the pennsylvania academy in 1812, garnered wide notice.
• ames was skilled at engraving and painted many members of the new york state legislature.

notable works and legacy

• the chautauqan magazine described ames as "the most noted portraitist in the state, outside new york city."
• ames served as chairman of the fine arts committee of the society for the promotion of useful arts in 1805.
• he was posthumously elected an honorary member of the american academy of fine arts in new york city.

later life and death

ames died on february 23, 1836, and is buried at the albany rural cemetery (lot 1 section 59). his legacy continues to be celebrated through his numerous portraits, which remain a testament to his skill and contribution to american art. view more of ezra ames' works on ArtsDot: [https://ArtsDot.com/@/ezraames](https://ArtsDot.com/@/ezraames) | /en/art/show/art-8xyffg-en/ explore more american artists on ArtsDot: [https://ArtsDot.com/@/james-presley-smith](https://ArtsDot.com/@/james-presley-smith) | [https://ArtsDot.com/@/henry-call](https://ArtsDot.com/@/henry-call) discover the world of art on ArtsDot: /en/art/list/ | /en/art/list/