Mrs. John Crosby Brown (Mary Elizabeth Adams, 1842–1918)

Anders Zorn

Created:
Movement:
1920
Realism
key Notes:
Portraiture elegance, Impressionistic brushwork
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Dimensions:
29 x 23 3/4 in. (73.7 x 60.3 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
story of the work:

"Mrs. John Crosby Brown (Mary Elizabeth Adams, 1842–1918)" is a portrait painted by Swedish artist Anders Zorn around 1900. The subject of the painting is Mary Elizabeth Adams, who was married to John Crosby Brown, a prominent American banker and philanthropist. Zorn was known for his mastery of light and texture, which is evident in the depiction of fabric and skin tones in this work. The painting reflects Zorn's ability to capture the personality and social status of his subjects, as well as his interest in American patrons during his time in the United States. The exact circumstances of the commission and the relationship between Zorn and the Brown family are not well-documented. The painting is part of the collection at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.

Description of the work:

"Mrs. John Crosby Brown (Mary Elizabeth Adams, 1842–1918)" by Anders Zorn is an oil on canvas portrait created around 1900. The composition features a seated woman, depicted in a three-quarter pose, with her gaze directed slightly off to the side. She is dressed in a dark, elegant gown that contrasts with the lighter tones of the background. The fabric of her dress is rendered with a sense of texture and depth, showcasing Zorn's skill in capturing the play of light. The subject's hair is styled in soft waves, framing her face, which is characterized by a serene expression. The use of a muted color palette enhances the overall sophistication of the portrait. Zorn employs loose brushwork, particularly in the background, which adds a sense of immediacy to the work. The painting exemplifies Zorn's ability to convey both the individuality of the sitter and the broader context of early 20th-century portraiture.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Mrs. John Crosby Brown (Mary Elizabeth Adams, 1842–1918)