Who painted Portrait of Kathleen Behan?

Portrait of Kathleen Behan was painted by Sarah Purser in 1898.

Where can I see Portrait of Kathleen Behan?

Portrait of Kathleen Behan is held by National Gallery of Ireland.

Can I buy a print of Portrait of Kathleen Behan?

Museum-quality prints of Portrait of Kathleen Behan are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Portrait of Kathleen Behan

Sarah Purser , 1898

Portrait of Kathleen Behan is an unspecified painting by Sarah Purser. It dates from 1898 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Ireland.

About this work

Overview

Sarah Purser's *Portrait of Kathleen Behan*, circa 1898, exemplifies her prowess as a prominent Irish portrait painter. Characterized by a somber and introspective mood, the work focuses on the detailed, neutral expression of its subject, set against a muted, multi-toned background.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait depicts Kathleen Behan with a contemplative demeanor, indicated by her downward-cast eyes and slightly furrowed eyebrows. Her long, curly hair frames a face rendered with meticulous attention to detail, drawing the viewer's focus.

Technique & Style

Purser employs a subdued color palette, featuring a dark-toned garment on the subject against a complex background of red, blue, and brown hues. The overall style emphasizes realism, prioritizing the subject's likeness and emotional state.

History & Provenance

*Portrait of Kathleen Behan* is part of the National Gallery of Ireland's collection. Notably, Sarah Purser was a trailblazer as the first female full member of the Royal Hibernian Academy.

Context

Created in the late 19th century, this portrait reflects Purser's specialization in capturing the personalities of her sitters through nuanced, detailed paintings.

Legacy

While specific legacy details of *Portrait of Kathleen Behan* are not highlighted, the work contributes to Sarah Purser's recognized legacy as a leading Irish portraitist of her time.