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The Burnish Sisters by Prior, William Matthew

Prior, William Matthew · 1854

William Matthew Prior's "The Burnish Sisters," painted in 1854, showcases the American folk artist's unique and economical approach to portraiture. Prior was known for offering portraits at various price points, with his simpler, flat-background works being particularly affordable. This made art accessible to a wider audience in the mid-19th century.

In this painting, notice the vibrant dresses of the two sisters, from the salmon-pink puffed sleeves to the mustard-yellow dress with orange shoulder bows. Despite the simplified background, details like the hair bows and the wicker basket of colorful items are carefully rendered, highlighting the girls' individual styles and the family's prosperity.

Prior's technique, while distinct from academic styles of the time, allowed him to produce numerous portraits of families and children. His work provides a valuable glimpse into everyday life and the desire for personal portraiture in 19th-century America. It's a testament to how art can reflect both individual stories and broader social trends.

What do you think of Prior's choice to simplify backgrounds to make his art more accessible?

Details

But for ten dollars, you could get one “with shade and lights.”
But for ten dollars, you could get one “with shade and lights.”
These girls wear their best dresses, captured in his folk style.
These girls wear their best dresses, captured in his folk style.
Even the tiniest bows were carefully rendered.
Even the tiniest bows were carefully rendered.
Prior's simple approach made art accessible to many.
Prior's simple approach made art accessible to many.
Slightly more composed expression than her sister; comparing the two faces reveals subtle individuality even within Prior's schematic style.
Slightly more composed expression than her sister; comparing the two faces reveals subtle individuality even within Prior's schematic style.
Transcript

This painter was a master of efficiency. He would paint portraits for just $2.50. But for ten dollars, you could get one “with shade and lights.” His flat backgrounds kept prices low. These girls wear their best dresses, captured in his folk style. Even the tiniest bows were carefully rendered. Prior's simple approach made art accessible to many.