Benn Pittman Balloon by Frank Duveneck is a unique portrait of Benn Pittman, an influential figure in the field of shorthand and a key player in the development of phonetic systems. Duveneck’s naturalistic approach captures Pittman’s likeness with a subtle use of light and shadow, highlighting his thoughtful expression. The background is kept simple, allowing the focus to remain on Pittman’s face, where Duveneck’s skilled brushwork creates a sense of depth and personality. This portrait reflects Duveneck’s talent for capturing the character of his subjects through refined realism.