Platt Powell Ryder: A Brooklyn Painter of Domestic Life and Quiet Dignity Platt Powell Ryder, born in Brunswick, Maine, in 1821, emerged as a significant figure within the vibrant New York art scene during the latter half of the 19th century. His life’s trajectory, from working in his father's shoe store to becoming a respected genre and portrait painter, reflects a dedication to honing his craft and capturing the nuances of everyday American life. Ryder’s artistic journey began modestly, fueled by a youthful passion for drawing – a pastime indulged during his spare moments. This early inter…