Theodore Clement Steele, American, 1847–1926
Late 19th century
Oil on canvas
30 in x 25 in
37.5 in x 32.5 in (framed)
DePauw University Purchase
When just 16 years old in 1863, T.C. Steele spent a summer in private study with Joseph Tingley, professor of natural sciences, at the young Indiana Asbury College (now DePauw). As a naturalist, Tingley also “dabbled in photography and drawing,” which was the likely focus of young Steele’s lessons”1.
During his lifetime, Steele would return several times to Greencastle to paint portraits of DePauw University faculty, donors, and trustees. In addition to painting a portrait of Professor Tingley’s two children, Steele was also commissioned to complete the portrait of former University trustee and namesake, Washington C. DePauw.
1“From Munich to Brown County: The Life and Artwork of T.C. Steele at Peeler.” DePauw University, January 27, 2017.
https://www.depauw.edu/news-media/latest-news/details/32844/