Artwork

Dorothy Black as Emily Brontë in <i>The Brontës</i> by Alfred Sangster

Dorothy Black as Emily Brontë in <i>The Brontës</i> by Alfred Sangster, by Hedwig Esther Pillitz, paint, 1933
Dorothy Black as Emily Brontë in <i>The Brontës</i> by Alfred Sangster, by Hedwig Esther Pillitz, paint, 1933

Dorothy Black as Emily Brontë in <i>The Brontës</i> by Alfred Sangster is a paint painting by the Realist artist Hedwig Esther Pillitz. It dates from 1933 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. Dorothy Black as Emily Brontë in <i>The Brontës</i> is a half-length portrait painted by Alfred Sangster.

About this work

Overview

Dorothy Black as Emily Brontë in <i>The Brontës</i> is a half-length portrait painted by Alfred Sangster. The subject, portrayed as the renowned author, is captured in a contemplative pose, holding a book to her chest.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts Dorothy Black embodying Emily Brontë, conveying a sense of literary association through the held book and understated, elegant attire, evoking the subject's character.

Technique & Style

Sangster employed chiaroscuro, contrasting the dark, muted tones of Black's green-black gown with lighter background hues, creating depth and emphasizing the subject's features through strategic lighting.

History & Provenance

The work is signed by Alfred Sangster, though specific details regarding its creation date, commissions, or early ownership are not provided in the available information.

Context

This portrait reflects a broader tradition of depicting literary figures through theatrical interpretations, highlighting the intersection of art, literature, and performance in the period.

Legacy

While the painting's direct impact or widespread recognition is not detailed, it contributes to the visual legacy of Brontë's cultural image and the representation of literary icons in art.

Artist & collection

Artist

Hedwig Esther Pillitz

Hedwig Esther Pillitz painted a 1933 portrait of the actress Dorothy Black dressed as Emily Brontë for the play *The Brontës* by Alfred Sangster.