The artwork, named “Mrs. Benjamin Kissam,” was masterfully created by John Singer Sargent in 1888. This impressive piece is rendered in oil on canvas and is a prime exemplar of the Realism art movement. The portrait, which measures 151.8 by 91.4 centimeters, is situated at the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina, USA.
The portrait captures a poised and elegantly attired woman, draped in a luxurious, elaborately detailed gown. Her dress displays intricate lacework on the sleeves and a rich, satin-like fabric that cascades gracefully around her. The interplay of light and shadow highlights the texture of the dress, emphasizing its sheen and the opulent nature of the material. The subject’s serene expression and composed demeanor are accentuated by the soft, realistic rendering of her facial features, embodying the dignified and refined characteristics typical of Sargent’s portraiture. The dark background serves to further illuminate the figure, ensuring that the viewer’s focus remains steadfastly on the subject. The overall composition is both sumptuous and sophisticated, the hallmarks of Sargent’s esteemed artistry in the realm of portrait painting.
