Mrs. Walter Rathbone Bacon (Virginia Purdy Barker, 1862–1919)

"Mrs. Walter Rathbone Bacon (Virginia Purdy Barker, 1862–1919)" is a portrait painted by Swedish artist Anders Zorn in 1897. The subject, Virginia Purdy Barker, was married to Walter Rathbone Bacon, an American businessman and philanthropist. Zorn was known for his mastery of light and texture, which is evident in the depiction of Mrs. Bacon's attire and the play of light on her skin. The painting reflects Zorn's ability to capture the personality and social status of his subjects. It is part of the collection at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. The work exemplifies Zorn's style during his time in the United States, where he gained recognition for his portraits of prominent figures. The exact circumstances of the commission are not well-documented.

"Mrs. Walter Rathbone Bacon (Virginia Purdy Barker, 1862–1919)" by Anders Zorn, created in 1897, is an oil on canvas portrait that captures the subject in a seated position. The composition features Virginia Purdy Barker dressed in a white gown with delicate lace details, which contrasts with her dark hair. Zorn employs a rich palette, utilizing warm tones to create a sense of intimacy and softness. The background is rendered in muted colors, allowing the figure to stand out prominently. The play of light and shadow on the subject's face and attire demonstrates Zorn's mastery of naturalistic representation. The brushwork is fluid and expressive, contributing to the overall sense of movement and life within the portrait. The painting exemplifies Zorn's ability to convey both the personality and the social status of his subjects through careful attention to detail and composition.