Who painted Portrait of a Lady?

Portrait of a Lady was painted by Charles Cromwell Ingham in ca. 1836–38.

Where can I see Portrait of a Lady?

Portrait of a Lady is held by Metropolitan Museum of Art.

What movement is Portrait of a Lady?

Portrait of a Lady is associated with American Folk Art.

Artwork

Portrait of a Lady

Charles Cromwell Ingham , 1837

Portrait of a Lady is a watercolor painting by the American Folk Art artist Charles Cromwell Ingham. It dates from 1837 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Charles Cromwell Ingham, an Irish-American artist, painted Portrait of a Lady around 1837. This intimate work, executed in watercolor on ivory, captures a woman in a conventional portrait style. Ingham was recognized for his contributions to American folk art and later played a significant role in establishing the New York National Academy of Design.

Subject & Meaning

The painting presents a woman positioned with her head turned, looking over her shoulder towards the viewer. She is attired in a dark dress, featuring a lace-trimmed collar, and her hair is neatly styled back. The artist employs a plain background, directing the viewer's attention and the play of light primarily onto her face and hands, emphasizing her features and delicate expression.

Technique & Style

Ingham's choice of watercolor on ivory for this portrait distinguishes it from the larger oil-on-canvas works common in American portraiture during the 1830s. The small scale of the piece, reminiscent of a locket, suggests a personal and delicate quality. The ivory surface imparts a soft, luminous glow to the subject's skin, creating an effect akin to natural candlelight.

Context

While most American portraits of the era were grander oil paintings, Ingham opted for the more delicate and private medium of watercolor on ivory, suggesting an intimate purpose for this work. Beyond his artistic output, Ingham was instrumental in the development of American art institutions, notably co-founding the New York National Academy of Design, a significant organization for artists of his time.

Artist & collection

Artist

Charles Cromwell Ingham

Charles Cromwell Ingham (1796 or 1797 – 10 December 1863) was an Irish-American portrait painter and later a founder of the New York National Academy of Design.

Museum

Metropolitan Museum of Art

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