"Monmouth before James II," painted by John Singleton Copley in 1778, depicts the moment of the Duke of Monmouth's appeal to King James II prior to the Monmouth Rebellion of 1685. This work exemplifies Copley's mastery of historical narrative and portraiture, reflecting the political tensions of the time and the artist's engagement with themes of loyalty and legitimacy in British history.
1
Intermediate
"Paul Christoph Mangelsdorf (1899-1989)" is a portrait created by Blanche Ames Ames, an American artist known for her contributions to both painting and botanical illustration. The work reflects Ames's engagement with her subjects, capturing the essence of Mangelsdorf, a prominent figure in the field of plant genetics, and exemplifies her skill in blending realism with a deep appreciation for her subjects' intellectual contributions.
"The Holy Family with the Infant Saint John the Baptist and Saint Elizabeth," painted by Nicolas Poussin around 1650, exemplifies the artist's commitment to classical composition and the emotional depth of religious subjects. This work reflects Poussin's influence on the Baroque period, emphasizing the interplay of light and shadow while conveying a serene yet profound narrative of familial and divine connection.
"Half-Length Portrait of a Young Man Holding an Orange," created by Denman Waldo Ross in 1910, exemplifies the artist's engagement with portraiture and his interest in color and form. The painting is notable for its vibrant use of color and the intimate portrayal of the subject, reflecting Ross's broader contributions to American art and his role in the development of modernist aesthetics in the early 20th century.
"Still Life with Pewter Candlestick and Clarinet," created by William Michael Harnett in 1880, exemplifies the artist's mastery of trompe-l'œil techniques, which create the illusion of three-dimensionality on a two-dimensional surface. This painting reflects the late 19th-century American fascination with realism and the meticulous representation of everyday objects, contributing to Harnett's reputation as a leading figure in the genre of still life.
"Saint Genevieve as a Child at Prayer," created by Pierre Henri Puvis de Chavannes in 1880, depicts the early life of the patron saint of Paris, emphasizing her piety and spiritual significance. The painting reflects Puvis de Chavannes's characteristic use of muted colors and simplified forms, which contribute to its serene and contemplative atmosphere, aligning with the artist's broader thematic focus on spirituality and the human condition.
"Pope Benedict XIV (Prospero Lambertini, 1675–1758)" is a portrait painted by Pierre Hubert Subleyras in 1746. The painting depicts Pope Benedict XIV, who was known for his intellectual pursuits and efforts to reform the Catholic Church. Subleyras, a French painter active in Italy, was recognized for his ability to capture the likeness and character of his subjects. This work exemplifies the Rococo style, characterized by its elegance and attention to detail. The portrait reflects the pope's dignified demeanor and the opulence of the papal office during the 18th century. The painting is notable for its use of light and shadow, enhancing the three-dimensionality of the figure. It is currently housed in the collection of the Museo di Roma. Further details about the painting's provenance or exhibition history are not widely documented.
"River Landscape with Fishing Boats," created by Jan van Goyen in the early 17th century, exemplifies the Dutch Golden Age's focus on naturalistic landscapes and the integration of human activity within them. The painting reflects van Goyen's mastery of atmospheric effects and his innovative use of color and composition, contributing significantly to the development of landscape painting in the Netherlands.
"Pompadour at Her Toilette," painted by François Boucher in 1756, depicts Madame de Pompadour, the influential mistress of King Louis XV, engaged in her morning routine, showcasing the Rococo style's emphasis on intimacy and elegance. The work not only highlights Boucher's mastery of color and texture but also reflects the cultural significance of Pompadour as a patron of the arts and a key figure in 18th-century French society.
"Portrait of Madame Moitessier" by Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres, completed in 1856, depicts Marie-Clotilde-Inès Moitessier, the wife of a wealthy banker, and exemplifies Ingres' mastery of neoclassical portraiture with its meticulous attention to detail and idealized representation. The painting, commissioned in 1844 but delayed due to Ingres' other commitments, reflects his admiration for classical antiquity and the influence of Renaissance masters, particularly in its compositional reference to the Roman frescoes and the works of Raphael.
"Francis Calley Gray (1790-1856)" is a portrait painted by Francis Alexander in 1856, capturing the likeness of the prominent American artist and educator. The work is significant for its representation of Gray's contributions to the arts in the United States during the 19th century, reflecting the evolving role of portraiture in American society.
"Kenneth J. Conant (1894-1984)" is a portrait painted by Denman Waldo Ross, an American artist known for his contributions to both painting and art education. The work reflects Ross's engagement with prominent figures in academia, as Conant was a distinguished architectural historian and professor, highlighting the intersection of art and intellectual discourse in early 20th-century America.
"Composition with Three Figures II," created by T. Lux Feininger in 1930, exemplifies the artist's exploration of abstraction and form, reflecting the influence of both German Expressionism and the Bauhaus movement. The painting is notable for its dynamic interplay of geometric shapes and figures, which underscores Feininger's interest in the synthesis of color and structure, contributing to the broader discourse on modernist art in the early 20th century.
The painting "Henry Pickering Bowditch (1840-1911)" by Ignaz Marcel Gaugengigl, created in 1885, is a portrait of the prominent American physician and physiologist known for his contributions to the field of medicine, particularly in the study of the heart and respiratory system. Gaugengigl's work is characterized by its meticulous attention to detail and the ability to convey the subject's intellectual presence, reflecting the significance of Bowditch's scientific achievements during a transformative period in medical history.
"Turtle and Bamboo," created by the Japanese artist Nagasawa Rosetsu in the late Edo period, exemplifies the artist's mastery of ink painting and his ability to blend traditional themes with a unique stylistic approach. The work reflects the cultural significance of the turtle as a symbol of longevity and wisdom, while the bamboo represents resilience and flexibility, thus embodying key philosophical concepts in Japanese art and culture.
"Saint Augustine," created by Giovanni di Paolo around 1440, is a tempera on wood panel that exemplifies the artist's distinctive use of color and intricate detail, reflecting the influence of the Sienese school. The painting illustrates the theological significance of Saint Augustine, a key figure in Christian thought, and has been noted for its impact on the representation of saints in Renaissance art, particularly in its emotive expression and iconographic elements.
"View of a Farm," created by Edward Martin Taber in 1880, exemplifies the artist's engagement with rural American landscapes, reflecting the agrarian lifestyle of the late 19th century. The painting is notable for its detailed depiction of farm life and its contribution to the American Impressionist movement, showcasing Taber's ability to capture light and atmosphere in a pastoral setting.
"Miss Alice Kurtz," painted by Thomas Cowperthwait Eakins in 1891, depicts the young daughter of a prominent Philadelphia family, showcasing Eakins' mastery in capturing the psychological depth and individuality of his subjects. The work is significant for its realistic portrayal and the artist's innovative use of light and shadow, reflecting Eakins' commitment to realism and his influence on American portraiture.
"Eliphalet Pearson (1752-1826), after Samuel F.B. Morse" is a portrait created by James Frothingham, reflecting the artistic style and techniques of early 19th-century American portraiture. The painting serves as a significant representation of Pearson, a prominent educator and the first president of Harvard's Lawrence Scientific School, highlighting the cultural and intellectual milieu of the period.
Virgin and Child with Saints Jerome and Bernardino and Angels
Sano di Pietro (Ansano di Pietro di Mencio)
"Virgin and Child with Saints Jerome and Bernardino and Angels," created by Sano di Pietro in the early 15th century, exemplifies the artist's integration of religious iconography and the Sienese painting tradition. The work reflects the devotional practices of the time, emphasizing the veneration of the Virgin Mary and the saints, and showcases Sano di Pietro's characteristic use of vibrant colors and intricate details.
"Village Square, Brittany" is a painting created by French artist Odilon Redon in 1890, exemplifying his interest in the interplay of color and light, as well as his engagement with themes of rural life and mysticism. The work reflects the Symbolist movement's emphasis on emotional depth and the exploration of the subconscious, contributing to Redon's reputation as a pivotal figure in late 19th-century art.
"Colonel Mordaunt's Cockfight" is a painting by John Zoffany, completed in 1784, which depicts a lively scene of a cockfight attended by British officers and Indian nobility, reflecting the cultural exchanges during the British colonial period in India. The work is notable for its detailed portrayal of figures and the social dynamics of the time, and it is currently housed in the collection of the Tate Britain, London.
"The Millinery Shop" is a painting by Edgar Degas, created in 1882. The work depicts a scene inside a millinery shop, showcasing a group of women engaged in the selection of hats. Degas is known for his interest in the depiction of modern life and the exploration of movement and composition. The painting exemplifies his innovative approach to perspective, with a focus on the interplay of figures and objects within the space. The use of light and color reflects the influence of Impressionism, although Degas maintained a more structured composition. The figures are rendered with a sense of immediacy, capturing a moment of social interaction. This work is part of Degas's broader exploration of women's roles in society during the late 19th century. "The Millinery Shop" is held in the collection of the Musée d'Orsay in Paris, France.
"View near Rouen," created by Richard Parkes Bonington in 1830, exemplifies the artist's mastery of light and atmosphere, capturing the serene landscape of the Seine River near Rouen, France. Bonington, a key figure in the Romantic movement, was known for his plein air technique, which influenced subsequent generations of landscape painters.
"Edgartown Landscape," created by Denman Waldo Ross in 1910, exemplifies the artist's engagement with the Impressionist style, capturing the serene coastal scenery of Martha's Vineyard. The painting reflects Ross's commitment to color and light, contributing to the early 20th-century American art movement and showcasing the natural beauty of the region.
"Moonlight, Wood Island Light" is an oil on canvas painting by Winslow Homer, created in 1894, depicting the Wood Island Lighthouse in Maine illuminated by moonlight. The work exemplifies Homer's mastery of light and atmosphere, reflecting his interest in coastal themes and the interplay between nature and human structures.
"Arlésiennes (Mistral)" is a painting by Paul Gauguin, created in 1888. The work is part of a series that depicts women from Arles, a town in the south of France, where Gauguin spent time alongside Vincent van Gogh. The painting features two women in traditional Provençal dress, characterized by their distinctive hats and vibrant colors. Gauguin's use of bold colors and simplified forms reflects his interest in symbolism and the expressive potential of color. The title references the Mistral, a strong, cold wind that affects the region, suggesting a connection to the local environment. This work exemplifies Gauguin's departure from Impressionism towards a more personal and emotive style. "Arlésiennes (Mistral)" is significant in the context of Gauguin's exploration of cultural identity and the representation of women in art. The painting is housed in the collection of the Musée d'Orsay in Paris.
"Venetian Canal with Bridges," created by Denman Waldo Ross in 1910, exemplifies the artist's engagement with Impressionist techniques and his fascination with the interplay of light and color in urban landscapes. The painting reflects Ross's experiences in Venice, capturing the architectural beauty and atmospheric qualities of the canals, which contributed to the broader appreciation of Impressionism in American art during the early 20th century.
"Preparing a Railway Cutting," painted by Charles-François Eustache in 1855, depicts the labor involved in the construction of railway infrastructure, reflecting the industrial advancements of the period. This work is significant for its realistic portrayal of contemporary labor and its contribution to the broader movement of realism in 19th-century French art.
"L'Or et le Noir," created by Otto Piene in 1961, exemplifies the artist's exploration of light and color through the use of fire and smoke, reflecting his interest in the interplay between natural phenomena and artistic expression. The work is significant within the context of the Zero movement, which Piene co-founded, emphasizing a departure from traditional art forms and a focus on the sensory experience of the viewer.
"Death and Victory," painted by John Singer Sargent in 1919, serves as a poignant commentary on the duality of loss and triumph in the aftermath of World War I. The work, characterized by Sargent's masterful use of light and shadow, reflects the emotional complexity of the era, illustrating the interplay between mortality and the celebration of victory, and has since been recognized for its significant contribution to the discourse on war and its consequences in art.
"Sunset from Olana," painted by Frederic Edwin Church in 1870, depicts a vibrant sunset view from his home, Olana, located in the Hudson River Valley, which he designed to harmonize with the surrounding landscape. This work exemplifies the artist's mastery of color and light, reflecting the Romantic ideals of the time and contributing to the American landscape painting movement, while also showcasing Church's deep connection to the natural environment.
"George Washington (1732-1799), after Rembrandt Peale (1778-1860)" by Constantino Brumidi is a notable work that reflects the 19th-century American reverence for George Washington, utilizing Peale's earlier portrait as a reference. Created in the context of the U.S. Capitol's decorative program, Brumidi's painting contributes to the iconography of American leadership and national identity, emphasizing Washington's enduring legacy.
"La sala delle agitate al Bonifacio di Firenze," created by Telemaco Signorini in 1865, depicts a scene within the Bonifacio Hospital in Florence, capturing the emotional intensity of the patients. Its curatorial impact lies in its representation of 19th-century Italian social issues and the evolution of realism in art, prompting discussions on mental health and the role of institutions in society.
"Bridge in a Landscape," painted by Gustave Courbet in 1865, exemplifies the artist's commitment to realism and his focus on the natural environment, showcasing a bridge set against a lush, detailed landscape. This work reflects Courbet's innovative approach to landscape painting, emphasizing the interplay between human structures and nature, and it contributed to the broader movement of realism in 19th-century art.
"Lake Windemere Morning," created by F. Sydney Muschamp, exemplifies the artist's engagement with the natural landscape of the Lake District in England, reflecting the atmospheric conditions and serene beauty of the region. The painting is notable for its use of light and color, which captures the tranquil essence of early morning, contributing to the broader movement of British landscape painting in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
"Head of a Young Woman," created by Jean-Baptiste Greuze in 1789, exemplifies the artist's focus on emotional expression and the portrayal of youth and innocence. The painting is notable for its delicate rendering and intimate composition, reflecting the aesthetic values of the late 18th century in France.
"View of Rhenen," painted by Jan van Goyen in 1646, exemplifies the Dutch landscape tradition, characterized by its atmospheric effects and meticulous attention to natural detail. The work reflects the socio-political context of the time, as it captures the serene yet dynamic relationship between humanity and the Dutch countryside, contributing to the broader appreciation of landscape painting in the 17th century.
"The Streetwalker" is a painting by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, created around 1890–91. The work depicts a solitary woman, likely a prostitute, standing on a street corner, embodying the themes of urban life and social marginalization prevalent in Lautrec's oeuvre. The artist's interest in the nightlife of Paris and its inhabitants is evident in this piece, reflecting his focus on the city's bohemian culture. The painting is characterized by its bold colors and expressive brushwork, typical of Lautrec's style. It is part of a broader exploration of the human condition and the complexities of modernity during the late 19th century. The current location of the painting is unknown, but it is recognized as an important work within Lautrec's body of art.
"Italian Landscape with Travellers," painted by Jan de Momper in the early 17th century, exemplifies the artist's engagement with the picturesque qualities of the Italian countryside, reflecting the influence of the Italianate landscape tradition. The work is notable for its detailed depiction of natural elements and human figures, contributing to the broader appreciation of landscape painting in Northern Europe during the Baroque period.
"Francis Bowen (1811-1890)" is a portrait painted by Edwin Tryon Billings, an American artist known for his contributions to 19th-century portraiture. The work reflects Bowen's significance as a philosopher and educator, capturing the intellectual spirit of the era while showcasing Billings' skill in rendering likeness and character through oil on canvas.
"The Herring Net" is a painting by Winslow Homer, created in 1885. This work exemplifies Homer's interest in marine subjects and his focus on the lives of fishermen. The painting depicts a group of men engaged in the labor-intensive process of fishing, specifically the casting of a herring net. Homer's use of light and color captures the dynamic interplay between the figures and the sea, emphasizing the physicality of their work. The composition reflects Homer's mastery of depicting human figures in relation to their environment. This painting is part of a broader exploration of American life and labor during the late 19th century. It is currently housed in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.
"Sunday Afternoon, Berkshire County, Mass." is a notable work by American artist James McDougal Hart, created in 1865. The painting exemplifies Hart's engagement with the Hudson River School's emphasis on the American landscape, capturing the serene beauty of the Berkshire region while reflecting the cultural and social dynamics of leisure in 19th-century America.
Processional Cross. Recto: Suffering Christ with Virgin, a Pelican Feeding her Young, and Saint John the Evangelist
Domenico di Michelino
The "Processional Cross" by Domenico di Michelino, created in the mid-15th century, exemplifies the artist's skill in combining religious iconography with a narrative structure, featuring the Suffering Christ alongside the Virgin and Saint John on the recto, while the verso presents a triumphant Christ with Saint Francis and other saints. This work reflects the devotional practices of the time, serving both liturgical purposes and as a visual representation of the theological themes of suffering and redemption central to the Christian faith.
"The Dentist," painted by Gerhard Dou in 1660, exemplifies the Dutch Golden Age's focus on genre scenes and meticulous attention to detail. The work captures a moment of dental examination, reflecting both the emerging interest in medical practices of the time and Dou's mastery of light and texture, which contributed to his reputation as a leading painter of the period.
"The Beloved Child," painted by Jean-Honoré Fragonard in 1771, exemplifies the Rococo style characterized by its playful themes and delicate brushwork. The painting reflects the artist's exploration of familial affection and innocence, contributing to the broader discourse on childhood in 18th-century French art.
"William Hayes Fogg (1817-1884)" is a portrait painted by Eastman Johnson in 1869, capturing the prominent Bostonian and art collector in a moment of introspection. The work exemplifies Johnson's mastery of light and texture, contributing to the 19th-century American portraiture movement and reflecting the cultural significance of individual identity during that period.
"Dutch Village Scene with Hanging Laundry," painted by Max Liebermann in 1889, exemplifies the artist's engagement with rural life and his interest in naturalistic representation. The work reflects the influence of Impressionism, showcasing Liebermann's ability to capture light and atmosphere while depicting the everyday activities of Dutch villagers, thereby contributing to the broader narrative of 19th-century European art that emphasized realism and the depiction of contemporary life.
"Israel Munson (1767-1844)" is a portrait painted by Chester Harding in 1826, capturing the likeness of the prominent Connecticut merchant and politician. The work exemplifies Harding's skill in rendering detailed facial expressions and textures, contributing to the development of American portraiture in the early 19th century.
"William James (1842-1910)" is a portrait created by American artist Sarah Wyman Whitman, known for her contributions to the Boston School of painting and her role in the Arts and Crafts movement. The work reflects Whitman's interest in capturing the intellectual essence of her subject, the prominent philosopher and psychologist William James, and exemplifies her skill in blending realism with decorative elements characteristic of her style.