Peter A. B. Widener (1902)
Technique: Giclée quality print
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The Philadelphia Museum of Art holds a remarkable painting from the storied brush of John Singer Sargent, titled "Peter A. B. Widener" (1902). This eminent portrait captures the essence of Peter Arrell Browne Widener, an influential American art collector and businessman of the early 20th century. Known for his significant contributions to the art world, including his foundational role in establishing what would later be known as the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., Widener’s imposing presence is masterfully rendered by Sargent in this work.In the painting, Sargent portrays Widener standing upright with a dignified pose, dressed in a dark, formal suit with a subtle hint of a watch chain peeking from a pocket – a symbol of status and meticulous attention to detail. The backdrop, a richly colored wooden paneling, echoes the opulence of the era and complements the subject’s prominent standing in society. Widener's expression, composed and slightly introspective, reflects a man aware of his stature and responsibilities.This piece not only illustrates Sargent’s virtuosity with the brush but also serves as a historical testament to the character and times of Peter A. B. Widener.
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Born in Florence to American expatriate parents, John Singer Sargent (1856–1925) is considered Europe's leading portrait painter of the Edwardian era. He was educated at both Accademia delle Belle Arti and Paris's École des Beaux Arts. While in Paris, under the guidance of Émile–Auguste Carolus–Duran, a portraitist and muralist, Sargent learned to paint directly from observation without first sketching, employing a fluidity, influenced by the Impressionists. Sargent created more than 2,900 paintings, mainly portraits and landscapes from his travels across the Atlantic, Europe, the Middle East and America.