Mrs. George Swinton (Elizabeth Ebsworth)

John Singer Sargent

Created:
Movement:
1897
Realism
key Notes:
Elegant portraiture, Edwardian sophistication
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Dimensions:
231 × 124 cm (90 3/4 × 48 3/4 in.)
medium:
Oil on canvas
story of the work:

"Mrs. George Swinton (Elizabeth Ebsworth)" is a portrait painted by John Singer Sargent, an American artist known for his contributions to portraiture and his mastery of oil painting. The work depicts Elizabeth Ebsworth, the wife of George Swinton, a prominent figure in British society. Sargent painted this portrait in 1900, during a period when he was at the height of his career, celebrated for his ability to capture the personality and social status of his subjects. The composition features Ebsworth in an elegant gown, set against a dark background that enhances her presence and the intricate details of her attire. Sargent's technique showcases his skill in rendering fabric and texture, as well as his use of light to create depth and dimension. The painting is part of the collection at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., where it continues to be studied for its artistic significance and representation of early 20th-century portraiture.

Description of the work:

"Mrs. George Swinton (Elizabeth Ebsworth)" by John Singer Sargent is an oil on canvas portrait that exemplifies the artist's mastery of light and texture. The composition features a seated figure, elegantly dressed in a flowing gown that showcases Sargent's skill in rendering fabric and drapery. The color palette is characterized by soft, muted tones, with a predominance of whites and pastels that enhance the subject's delicate features. The background is rendered in a loose, impressionistic style, providing a subtle contrast to the detailed portrayal of the figure. Sargent's brushwork is fluid and dynamic, capturing the play of light across the subject's face and attire. The subject's gaze is directed slightly off-canvas, creating a sense of introspection and engagement with the viewer. The overall composition conveys a sense of grace and sophistication, characteristic of Sargent's portraiture during this period.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Art Institute of Chicago

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Mrs. George Swinton (Elizabeth Ebsworth)