Mrs. Andrew Sigourney
Gilbert Stuart
"Mrs. Andrew Sigourney" is a portrait painted by American artist Gilbert Stuart around 1820. The subject of the painting is Sarah M. Sigourney, the wife of Andrew Sigourney, a prominent merchant in Providence, Rhode Island. Stuart was known for his ability to capture the likeness and personality of his subjects, and this work exemplifies his skill in portraiture. The painting is characterized by its attention to detail, particularly in the rendering of fabric and the sitter's expression. It is part of the collection at the Rhode Island School of Design Museum. The exact circumstances of the commission and the relationship between Stuart and the Sigourney family are not well-documented.
"Mrs. Andrew Sigourney" by Gilbert Stuart, created circa 1820, is an oil on canvas portrait that captures the subject in a three-quarter pose. The painting features a woman dressed in a white gown with a high neckline, adorned with delicate lace details at the sleeves. Her dark hair is styled simply, with a few loose strands framing her face, which is rendered with a soft, naturalistic palette. The background is a muted, dark tone that contrasts with the lighter hues of the gown, drawing attention to the figure. The use of light and shadow enhances the three-dimensionality of the subject, while the brushwork demonstrates Stuart's skill in capturing texture and form. The composition is balanced, with the subject's gaze directed slightly off-center, inviting the viewer into the intimate space of the portrait. The overall effect is one of elegance and refinement, characteristic of Stuart's portraiture during this period.