Mary Russell Smith

Provenance:

Private Collection, Pennsylvania

Exhibited:

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, 1856 (per label verso)

Lot Note:

Mary Russell Smith was a pioneering American painter and illustrator, celebrated for her meticulous depictions of animals and still life. Born into a family of artists in Philadelphia, she quickly established her own reputation in a city where opportunities for women artists were limited. Smith exhibited widely, including at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, and was recognized for her skillful technique, refined color palette, and naturalistic attention to detail. Her work not only exemplifies the highest standards of nineteenth-century American painting but also helped pave the way for women artists in Philadelphia to pursue professional careers in the arts.

Framed: 17 x 19 x 2 in.
The painting has been relined and there is scattered inpainting throughout, visible under UV light. There is craquelure throughout which has been stabilized, most visible in the lighter colored chicks. Additional images available upon request.
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