The Shoppers is an oil-on-canvas painting by American realist painter William James Glackens, completed in 1907. The artwork measures 152.4 x 152.4 cm and belongs to the New Realism style of art categorized under genre painting. The painting depicts middle-class New York life, with Edith Glackens being the protagonist, and their family friend Jeanne Mouquin representing the modern urban shopper class.
Glackens’ use of vivid brushwork on Jeanne Mouquin’s dress adds tension to the scene while imbuing it with mystery. It helped establish a new mode of painting that suits modern urban life’s uncertainties and new social activities. Glacken’s use of oil paints imparts a lively texture, adding depth to the paintings.
Other notable works by William James Glackens include Portsmouth Harbor, New Hampshire; and 29 Washington Square—all showcasing his unique style and celebrated career as a founder of the Ashcan School of American art.
“The Shoppers” is one of Glacken’s works that captures middle-class New York life during its time period through urban shopping indulgences depicted in a realism style.
