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Henriette Wyeth
(American, 1907 - 1997)
Sitter
Mrs. N. C. Wyeth
Portrait of Mrs. N. C. Wyeth
1929
40 1/4 × 36 3/16 in. (102.2 × 91.9 cm)
96.1.270
© artist, artist's estate, or other rights holders
Bequest of Carolyn Wyeth, 1996
Not on view
Henriette Wyeth’s talents as an artist were recognized as early as age sixteen when she began painting family members and receiving portrait commissions from prominent residents of Pennsylvania and Delaware. In this bold, beautifully designed depiction of her mother, Wyeth demonstrates her adoption of a Modernist decorative approach as well as her desire to express a connection with her subject. The artist lavishes attention on the textiles and clothing, particularly focusing on the silk turquoise lining of the fur coat that covers her mother’s chair. The rich floral background represents her mother’s love of flowers. Mrs. Wyeth’s serious expression seems in contrast to the exuberant color and textures, adding a touch of delicacy to the portrayal.