Girl of the Bangs-Phelps Family

Erastus Salisbury Field

Created:
Movement:
1848
Realism
key Notes:
American Folk Portraiture, 19th Century Realism
Share:
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
Dimensions:
58 3/4 × 30 1/4 in. (149.2 × 76.8 cm) Framed: 63 1/2 in. × 35 5/8 in. × 3 in. (161.3 × 90.5 × 7.6 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

"Girl of the Bangs-Phelps Family" is a painting by American artist Erastus Salisbury Field, created around 1848. The work is notable for its depiction of a young girl, likely a member of the Bangs-Phelps family, showcasing Field's skill in portraiture. Field was known for his detailed and expressive representations of his subjects, often capturing the clothing and social status of the individuals portrayed. The painting reflects the mid-19th century American interest in family and individual identity. Specific details about the girl’s identity and the circumstances surrounding the commission of the painting remain unknown. Field's works are characterized by their vibrant colors and meticulous attention to detail, contributing to the understanding of American art during this period. The painting is part of the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston.

Description of the work:

"Girl of the Bangs-Phelps Family" by Erastus Salisbury Field, created circa 1848, features a young girl depicted in a three-quarter pose. The subject is dressed in a white dress with a high neckline, adorned with a blue sash that contrasts with the lighter fabric. Her hair is styled with bangs, framing her face and drawing attention to her expressive features. The background is a muted landscape, providing a serene context that emphasizes the figure. The use of oil on canvas allows for a rich texture and depth in the colors, enhancing the overall warmth of the composition. The lighting is soft, highlighting the girl's face and creating a gentle atmosphere. The painting exemplifies Field's skill in portraiture, capturing both the innocence and individuality of the subject.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

Could this content be improved?

Please let us know and we will be happy to correct it. We have put a ton of effort into collating and organizing all of this.
We may follow up with questions.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Girl of the Bangs-Phelps Family