Charles Ethan Porter (1847 - 1923) American Watercolor on Paper Measure 18"in H x 14"in W and 26 1/2"in H x 22 1/2"in W with framw Known for: Fruit and floral still life painting Name variants: C E Porter Biography: Charles Ethan Porter was a noted still life and floral painter of the 19th century. Floral painting in the United States was limited to a small cadre of artists in the 19th century, which was probably due in part to a dominant European floral tradition that is still evidenced in European museums today. Consequently, only the most courageous American artists ventured into floral still life painting. Porter's paintings give a fresh American interpetation to an old European tradition. American flora is painted with translucent colors and rich, full brushstrokes. The use of light and dark colors are utilized to create a dramatic floral portrait. Porter's emphasis is upon the natural beauty of flowers. The containers, tables, and props are considered as secondary to the miracle of nature's beauty. Porter's interest in nature was also translated into paintings of fruit, landscapes, marines, insects and fish.