Who painted Mrs. John Williams (Mary Sumner)?

Mrs. John Williams (Mary Sumner) was painted by Gilbert Stuart in 1801.

Where can I see Mrs. John Williams (Mary Sumner)?

Mrs. John Williams (Mary Sumner) is held by Museum of Fine Arts Boston.

Can I buy a print of Mrs. John Williams (Mary Sumner)?

Museum-quality prints of Mrs. John Williams (Mary Sumner) are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Mrs. John Williams (Mary Sumner)

Gilbert Stuart , 1801

Mrs. John Williams (Mary Sumner) is an unspecified painting by Gilbert Stuart. It dates from 1801 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts Boston.

About this work

The subject's face is the focal point, with her gaze directed straight ahead.

This portrait depicts a woman with short, light hair and a dark dress. She wears a lace-trimmed bonnet and a high-necked, ruffled collar.

The subject's face is the focal point, with her gaze directed straight ahead. The background is a solid, dark color that helps the subject stand out.

The painting is a classic example of a portrait from the early 19th century. To learn more about the artist's use of chiaroscuro, a technique that uses strong contrasts of light and dark to create a sense of volume in modeling three-dimensional objects and figures, explore the works of Gilbert Stuart.

Overview

Gilbert Stuart's 'Mrs. John Williams (Mary Sumner)' is a portrait painted circa 1801. Stuart was a prominent American portraitist known for his skillful renderings of prominent figures, including multiple portraits of George Washington.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts Mary Sumner, wife of John Williams, shown with short, light hair and dressed in dark attire, including a lace-trimmed bonnet and high-necked, ruffled collar. Her direct gaze engages the viewer, set against a dark, plain background.

Technique & Style

Stuart's characteristic style is evident in the portrait, with the subject's face as the focal point. The use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth, with strong contrasts between light and dark areas.

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Artist & collection

Artist

Gilbert Stuart

Gilbert Stuart (né Stewart; December 3, 1755 – July 9, 1828) was an American painter born in the Rhode Island Colony who is widely considered one of America's foremost portraitists.