Judith

Roger Medearis, Judith, 1968, acrylic and egg tempera on Masonite, 27 ¹⁄₈ x 25 ¹⁄₈ in. (68.9 x 63.8 cm.), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Mr. Philip Desind, 1986.90.3

Artwork Details

Title: Judith
Artist: Roger Medearis
Date: 1968
Location: Smithsonian American Art Museum
/
Luce Foundation Center
/
4th Floor
/
34B
Dimensions: 27 ¹⁄₈ x 25 ¹⁄₈ in. (68.9 x 63.8 cm.)
Credit Line: Gift of Mr. Philip Desind
Mediums: tempera
acrylic
Mediums Description: acrylic and egg tempera on Masonite
Classifications: Painting
Subjects: Portrait female — unidentified — Judith
Figure female — waist length
Dress — accessory — hat
Object Number: 1986.90.3
Linked Open Data: https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/1986.90.3

Artwork Description

In 1966, after fifteen years in the business world, Roger Medearis returned to painting, and in later years became known for his images of midwestern landscapes and portraits. In Judith the figure's pale green dress and laced-trimmed bonnet recall the clothing of the pioneer women who settled the Midwest a century earlier. Judith's pose mimics that of portraits of wealthy patrons: Her body is at an angle to the canvas and she looks away from the viewer. Her sagging shoulders and careworn face, however, suggest that the portrait is less a celebration of Judith's wealth or beauty, and more a tribute to the steadfastness and spirit of those who braved the frontier.