Who painted Portrait of Maire Nic Shiubhlaigh (1883-1958), Actress?

Portrait of Maire Nic Shiubhlaigh (1883-1958), Actress was painted by John Butler Yeats in 1904.

Where can I see Portrait of Maire Nic Shiubhlaigh (1883-1958), Actress?

Portrait of Maire Nic Shiubhlaigh (1883-1958), Actress is held by National Gallery of Ireland.

What movement is Portrait of Maire Nic Shiubhlaigh (1883-1958), Actress?

Portrait of Maire Nic Shiubhlaigh (1883-1958), Actress is associated with Post-Impressionism.

Can I buy a print of Portrait of Maire Nic Shiubhlaigh (1883-1958), Actress?

Museum-quality prints of Portrait of Maire Nic Shiubhlaigh (1883-1958), Actress are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Portrait of Maire Nic Shiubhlaigh (1883-1958), Actress

John Butler Yeats , 1904

Portrait of Maire Nic Shiubhlaigh (1883-1958), Actress is an oil painting by the Post-Impressionist artist John Butler Yeats. It dates from 1904 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Ireland. Executed in 1904, this oil portrait represents Máire Nic Shiubhlaigh, a prominent figure in early Irish theater.

About this work

Overview

The work was created by John Butler Yeats, a painter whose artistic practice intersected with the cultural revival of the period.

Executed in 1904, this oil portrait represents Máire Nic Shiubhlaigh, a prominent figure in early Irish theater. The work was created by John Butler Yeats, a painter whose artistic practice intersected with the cultural revival of the period. The painting remains part of the National Gallery of Ireland’s holdings, offering insight into both the sitter’s significance and the artist’s approach to portraiture.

Subject & Meaning

Máire Nic Shiubhlaigh, depicted here, was a key performer in Dublin’s Abbey Theatre during its formative years. The portrait captures her in a moment of quiet introspection, her expression suggesting both composure and depth. Rather than emphasizing theatricality, the image presents her as an individual, reflecting the artist’s interest in conveying inner character alongside outward appearance.

Technique & Style

Yeats employed loose, visible brushwork, particularly evident in the rendering of the sitter’s garment and sleeves. The dark, indistinct background contrasts with the softly modeled face and collar, drawing attention to the subject. This approach aligns with post-impressionist methods, prioritizing expressive handling of paint over meticulous detail to evoke mood and presence.

History & Provenance

The portrait entered the collection of the National Gallery of Ireland, where it has been preserved as part of the institution’s representation of Irish art. Its creation in 1904 situates it within a period of heightened cultural activity in Dublin, coinciding with the rise of the Abbey Theatre and the broader literary and artistic revival.

Context

John Butler Yeats, though less celebrated than his son W.B. Yeats, played a role in documenting the individuals shaping Ireland’s cultural landscape. This portrait reflects the era’s growing emphasis on national identity, with theater serving as a vehicle for both artistic expression and political discourse. The painting thus functions as both personal likeness and historical record.