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Elizabeth Fulford Welshman by Greenwood, John

Greenwood, John · 1749

This portrait of Elizabeth Fulford Welshman, painted in 1749, holds a poignant story not visible on the canvas itself. It's attributed to John Greenwood, an artist with a unique, if tragic, biography.

Observe her serene gaze, the lustrous blue satin of her dress, and the delicate pearl necklace she holds. The painting itself is a fine example of mid-18th century portraiture.

However, the artist John Greenwood was born in 1749, the very year this painting was made, and he died at birth. The signature 'J. Greenwood pinx:' (painted by J. Greenwood) is believed to be a tribute by his family, perhaps his father, who may have completed the work and posthumously honored his son in this way.

It makes you wonder about the stories behind other works we see, and the silent tributes they might carry.

Details

She wears a blue satin dress and a delicate pearl necklace.
She wears a blue satin dress and a delicate pearl necklace.
Greenwood was a child prodigy, but he died at birth.
Greenwood was a child prodigy, but he died at birth.
The crisp white fabric provides a striking contrast to the deep blue of her dress.
The crisp white fabric provides a striking contrast to the deep blue of her dress.
The careful rendering of her fingers and the way they interact with the pearls suggests a gentle touch.
The careful rendering of her fingers and the way they interact with the pearls suggests a gentle touch.
Transcript

This portrait of Elizabeth Fulford Welshman was painted in 1749. She wears a blue satin dress and a delicate pearl necklace. The artist, John Greenwood, was born the same year he painted this. Greenwood was a child prodigy, but he died at birth. The signature on this canvas is a family tribute.