Artwork

The Ragan Sisters

The Ragan Sisters, by Jacob Eichholtz, oil, 1818
The Ragan Sisters, by Jacob Eichholtz, oil, 1818

The Ragan Sisters is an oil painting by the American Folk Art artist Jacob Eichholtz. It dates from 1818 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Jacob Eichholtz completed *The Ragan Sisters* in 1818, an oil on canvas painting. This work portrays two young girls, presumably the Ragan sisters, seated together. Their period attire and the surrounding floral elements contribute to the composition. The painting is currently housed at the National Gallery of Art in Washington.

Subject & Meaning

The painting features two young girls, identified as the Ragan sisters, depicted in a seated pose. Their proximity and interaction suggest an exploration of their familial bond. The inclusion of various flowers around them not only enhances the visual appeal but also symbolically complements the youthful subjects, adding a layer of natural beauty to the portrait.

Technique & Style

Executed in oil on canvas, this portrait by Eichholtz demonstrates a careful attention to detail. The artist meticulously rendered the intricate patterns and textures of the sisters' period clothing. Similarly, the surrounding floral arrangements are depicted with precision, highlighting individual blossoms and foliage, which contributes to the overall realism and richness of the composition.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Jacob Eichholtz

Artist

Jacob Eichholtz

American, Lancaster, Pennsylvania 1776–1842 Lancaster, Pennsylvania

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.