Artwork

Mrs. Jabez Ellis (Elizabeth Newell)

Mrs. Jabez Ellis (Elizabeth Newell), by Chester Harding, oil, 1840
Mrs. Jabez Ellis (Elizabeth Newell), by Chester Harding, oil, 1840

Mrs. Jabez Ellis (Elizabeth Newell) is an oil painting by the American Folk Art artist Chester Harding. It dates from 1840 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts Boston.

About this work

If you're interested in learning more about this style of portraiture, you might want to explore the work of artist Chester Harding.

This painting is a portrait of a woman, likely from the 19th century. She is depicted wearing a dark dress with a lace collar and a bonnet, which suggests a modest and conservative style. The background of the painting is a plain color, which helps to focus attention on the subject.

The woman's facial expression is serious and introspective, with a subtle hint of a smile. Her eyes are cast downward, giving the impression that she is lost in thought. The overall effect of the painting is one of quiet contemplation, inviting the viewer to reflect on the subject's inner world.

If you're interested in learning more about this style of portraiture, you might want to explore the work of artist Chester Harding.

Overview

This oil painting, created by Chester Harding in 1840, is a portrait of Mrs. Jabez Ellis, also known as Elizabeth Newell. It is part of the Museum of Fine Arts Boston's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The subject is depicted in a dark dress with a lace collar and bonnet, conveying a modest and conservative style. Her serious and introspective expression, with eyes cast downward, suggests quiet contemplation and invites the viewer to consider her inner world.

Technique & Style

The portrait is characteristic of the American folk art movement, with a plain colored background that focuses attention on the subject. Harding's style is marked by a straightforward representation of his subject.

History & Provenance

Chester Harding was an American portrait painter active in the early 19th century, producing likenesses of notable figures in the United States and England.

Mrs. David R. Van Derveer (Eliza Holmes Ellis)
Mrs. David R. Van Derveer (Eliza Holmes Ellis), George Henry Durrie

Artist & collection

Portrait of Chester Harding

Artist

Chester Harding

Chester Harding (September 1, 1792 – April 1, 1866) was an American portrait painter known for his paintings of prominent figures in the United States and England.

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Mrs. Jabez Ellis (Elizabeth Newell)?

Mrs. Jabez Ellis (Elizabeth Newell) was painted by Chester Harding in 1840.

Where can I see Mrs. Jabez Ellis (Elizabeth Newell)?

Mrs. Jabez Ellis (Elizabeth Newell) is held by Museum of Fine Arts Boston.

What movement is Mrs. Jabez Ellis (Elizabeth Newell)?

Mrs. Jabez Ellis (Elizabeth Newell) is associated with American Folk Art.