Mrs. Duxbury and her Daughter
- Original dimensions
- 97.1 x 144.5 cm
- Museum
- Manchester City Art Galleries
Scene depicted
This painting immerses us in the intimacy of a family scene. The figures, Mrs. Duxbury and her daughter, are depicted in a serene setting, where the glow of light plays on their faces. The expression of tenderness, the knowing glance, and the angle of their bodies evoke a deep connection. The composition is refined, each detail a reflection of parental love and the delicacy of human bonds.
Historical context
Created in 1884, this painting is located in Manchester, England, at a time when realism and portraiture are experiencing significant growth. As a capital work of the impressionist period, the painting reveals Sargent's technical skill and his ability to capture precious and fleeting moments of life. This work is currently housed at the Manchester City Art Galleries, where it is admired by thousands of visitors each year.
Place in the artist's career
Positioned at a key moment in his career, the painting by Sargent represents the evolutionary style he adopts from the 1880s onwards. In parallel, works such as Queen Isabelle and Portrait of Lady Agnew testify to his rise to a stylistic peak, affirming his status as an undisputed master of portraiture.
Anecdote
“Ephemeral beauty is to be captured in the gaze of a loved one.” These words could very well summarize the essence of Mrs. Duxbury and her daughter . Inspired by a spring afternoon tea, Sargent carefully observes the delicate gestures of his model, her daughter captivated by the maternal feeling. This fleeting moment leaves a lasting imprint on the soul of this canvas , awakening in it a melody of memories.