The artwork, entitled “Mrs. Asher Wertheimer (Flora Joseph),” was masterfully created by John Singer Sargent circa 1898. Executed with oil on canvas, this portrait is a quintessential example of the Realism movement. The dimensions of the piece are 147.3 x 95.2 cm, showcasing Sargent’s ability to capture life-like representations in his portraiture.
The artwork presents Mrs. Flora Joseph, the wife of Asher Wertheimer, standing gracefully with an air of dignified elegance. She is adorned in a refined, light-colored gown, ornately embellished with intricate lace details. Pearls and delicate jewelry further enhance her sophisticated attire, elegantly draped around her neck. Her poised expression, accentuated by her carefully coifed dark hair, conveys a sense of calm self-assurance. The subtle hues and skilled brushwork highlight the texture of her attire and the gentle shadows, contributing to the overall realism and grandeur of the portrait. The artist’s masterful technique brings forth not only the physical likeness but also a deep introspection into her character and social standing.