Mrs. Luman Reed

"Mrs. Luman Reed" is a portrait painted by Charles Cromwell Ingham around 1835. The subject of the painting is Mrs. Luman Reed, the wife of a prominent New York merchant and art patron. Ingham was known for his detailed and realistic portraiture, which was characteristic of American art in the early 19th century. The painting exemplifies the artist's skill in capturing the personality and social status of his subjects. It is part of the collection at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. The exact circumstances of the commission and the relationship between Ingham and the Reed family are not well-documented. The work reflects the cultural and social dynamics of the period, particularly in relation to the role of women in society.

"Mrs. Luman Reed" by Charles Cromwell Ingham, created circa 1835, is an oil on canvas painting laid down on composition board. The portrait features a seated woman, elegantly attired in a dark dress with a white collar, which contrasts with her fair complexion. Her hair is styled in soft waves, framing her face and accentuating her serene expression. The background is rendered in muted tones, allowing the figure to stand out prominently. Ingham employs a realistic approach, capturing intricate details in the fabric and the sitter's features. The composition is balanced, with the subject positioned slightly off-center, drawing the viewer's eye to her poised demeanor. The use of light and shadow enhances the three-dimensionality of the figure, contributing to the overall lifelike quality of the portrait.