Artist:
Andrew Wyeth
(American, 1917 - 2009)
Sitter:
Dr. Margaret I. Handy
Children's Doctor
Medium: Tempera on panel
Date: 1949
Dimensions:
26 × 25 in. (66 × 63.5 cm)
Accession number: 80.29.1
Copyright: © 2024 Wyeth Foundation for American Art / Artists Rights Society (ARS), NY
Curatorial RemarksMargaret Handy (1889-1977), who practiced in Wilmington, Delaware, was one of the first physicians to specialize in pediatric medicine and was a pioneer in that field. During the 1940s she was both pediatrician and friend to the Wyeth family. This double portrait is unique in Wyeth's work. Dr. Handy's sitting pose describes her warmth and humor while her retreating coat-clad figure with medical bag in hand is telling of her constant duties as a physician. The combination of these images is pays tribute to her compassion and commitment.
Subject is Dr. Margaret Handy, a local pediatrician living in Chadds Ford in the house she built behind Andrew Wyeth's studio.
Subject is Dr. Margaret Handy, a local pediatrician living in Chadds Ford in the house she built behind Andrew Wyeth's studio.