Emma Homan

John Bradley

Created:
Movement:
1844
Realism
key Notes:
Portraiture, 19th-century American art
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Dimensions:
34 x 27 1/8 in. (86.4 x 68.9 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

"Emma Homan" is a portrait painted by American artist John Bradley around 1844. The painting depicts a young woman, Emma Homan, who is believed to have been a prominent figure in her community. John Bradley was known for his portraiture, often capturing the likenesses of notable individuals of his time. The work exemplifies the mid-19th century American portrait style, characterized by attention to detail and a focus on the subject's expression. The specific circumstances surrounding the commission of the portrait and the relationship between the artist and the sitter remain unknown. The painting is part of a broader tradition of American portraiture that sought to convey both the physical appearance and the social status of its subjects.

Description of the work:

"Emma Homan," created by John Bradley around 1844, is an oil on canvas portrait that captures the subject in a seated position. The composition features a young woman, Emma Homan, dressed in a fashionable gown typical of the mid-19th century, characterized by its soft fabric and delicate detailing. The color palette is dominated by muted tones, with subtle contrasts that enhance the figure's presence against a softly rendered background. The artist employs a naturalistic approach to depict the subject's facial features, conveying a sense of serenity and introspection. Light plays a significant role in the painting, highlighting the contours of her face and the texture of her attire. The brushwork is refined, demonstrating Bradley's skill in capturing both the likeness and the character of the sitter. The overall composition reflects the conventions of portraiture during this period, emphasizing both the individuality of the subject and the aesthetic values of the time.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Emma Homan