A Rose

Created in the early 20th century, A Rose represents a departure from Anshutz’s earlier work, which included more somber and socially conscious themes, such as The Ironworkers' Noontime.

In contrast, this painting focuses on the serene and intimate portrayal of an individual. Anshutz was a pivotal figure in American art, known for mentoring influential artists like John Sloan and Robert Henri at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. His late-career works, including A Rose, reflect a turn toward more personal and idyllic subjects, aligning with the era’s fascination with beauty and the softer aspects of human experience.

The work’s quiet simplicity and the lush depiction of the rose highlight Anshutz’s technical proficiency and his ability to evoke emotion through subtle details. A Rose stands as a testament to the painter’s versatility and his contribution to American portraiture, bridging the realism of the 19th century with the evolving artistic currents of the early 20th century.

A Rose (1907) by Thomas Anshutz is an intimate portrait that captures the gentle grace and beauty of a young woman near a resting rose.

The painting is known for its soft, luminous quality, achieved through Anshutz’s careful attention to detail and nuanced use of color. The subject’s contemplative expression and delicate pose exude a quiet elegance, inviting the viewer into a moment of personal reflection. The composition centers on the interaction between the figure and the flower, subtly suggesting themes of youth, beauty, and the fleeting nature of life.