New England Hostess

Gerard Barry, New England Hostess, n.d., oil on canvas, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Laura Dreyfus Barney and Natalie Clifford Barney in memory of their mother, Alice Pike Barney, 1952.13.72
Copied Gerard Barry, New England Hostess, n.d., oil on canvas, 40 1830 14 in. (101.976.9 cm.), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Laura Dreyfus Barney and Natalie Clifford Barney in memory of their mother, Alice Pike Barney, 1952.13.72
Free to use

Artwork Details

Title
New England Hostess
Artist
Date
n.d.
Dimensions
40 1830 14 in. (101.976.9 cm.)
Credit Line
Gift of Laura Dreyfus Barney and Natalie Clifford Barney in memory of their mother, Alice Pike Barney
Mediums
Mediums Description
oil on canvas
Classifications
Keywords
  • Occupation — art — artist
  • Portrait female — Barney, Alice Pike
  • Occupation — domestic — hostess
Object Number
1952.13.72

Artwork Description

William Gerard Barry painted many members of fashionable society after he arrived in America in 1888. Critics praised the young artist not only for his “rare knack of catching a likeness,” but also for his ability to convey a sitter's spirit (Chicago Daily Tribune,  June 1, 1890). Here, the lady's handsome features and vibrant green sash stand out against the creamy shades of her dress and the wall behind her. Her confident, appraising expression and relaxed arms suggest a woman who was very comfortable in her own skin.