Thomas Pollock Anshutz (1851–1912) was a prominent American painter and educator known for his contribution to the Ashcan School, a movement recognized for its realistic depictions of urban life. Born in Philadelphia, Anshutz exhibited artistic talent from a young age, which led him to study at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts under the mentorship of Thomas Eakins. Anshutz’s work is characterized by its focus on the everyday lives of ordinary people, capturing scenes of labor, leisure, and social dynamics with a keen eye for detail and human emotion. His notable works include “The Ironworkers’ Noontime” (1880) and “The Graduates” (1890), which reflect his interest in both the working class and academic life. In addition to his artistic achievements, Anshutz was a dedicated teacher, serving as a professor at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. He influenced a new generation of artists, including notable figures like Robert Henri and George Bellows, who would go on to further the Ashcan School’s ideals. Anshutz's career was cut short when he passed away at the age of 61, but his legacy endures through his impactful works and his contributions to American art education. His paintings remain celebrated for their honest portrayal of American life in the late 19th century.