Artwork

Girl in White (Margaret Greene)

Girl in White (Margaret Greene), by Abbott Handerson Thayer, oil, 1894
Girl in White (Margaret Greene), by Abbott Handerson Thayer, oil, 1894

Girl in White (Margaret Greene) is an oil painting by the American Impressionist artist Abbott Handerson Thayer. It dates from 1894 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts Boston.

About this work

Overview

Abbott Handerson Thayer created the oil painting *Girl in White (Margaret Greene)* in 1894. The work is part of the American Impressionist tradition and is currently owned by the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston.

Subject & Meaning

The canvas shows a young woman seated, her hair gathered back, wearing a long‑sleeved, high‑necked white dress. She holds a small bouquet of purple and white flowers, her gaze turned to the right, conveying a calm, serene demeanor.

Technique & Style

Executed in oil, the painting employs a darkened background that isolates the figure, allowing the luminous white of the dress and the delicate colors of the flowers to stand out. Thayer’s handling reflects the soft brushwork and emphasis on light typical of American Impressionism.

History & Provenance

Thayer, an American painter and naturalist active in the late nineteenth century, produced this portrait during a prolific period of portraiture. After its creation, the work entered the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, where it remains on display.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Abbott Handerson Thayer

Artist

Abbott Handerson Thayer

Abbott Handerson Thayer (August 12, 1849 – May 29, 1921) was an American painter, naturalist, and teacher.