Mrs. William Shaw Ward 1884

Thomas Eakins made this portrait of Mrs. William Shaw Ward using oil paints. The way he handled the material is really striking. Eakins didn't try to hide the fact that this is a painting. You can see the brushstrokes, the way the paint is layered on the canvas, and the muted colors. There's a sense of immediacy, as if we're watching him in the act of creation. This approach aligns with a broader movement in the late 19th century where artists embraced realism and a focus on everyday life. Instead of striving for an idealized image, Eakins captured the sitter's presence in a straightforward manner. Eakins's commitment to realism also speaks to his interest in the working classes and the impact of industrialization on society. His approach to paint is quite egalitarian, and he doesn't set out to impress. By acknowledging the labor involved in the production of the artwork, Eakins elevates the value of craftsmanship. He challenges traditional distinctions between high art and craft, emphasizing the importance of materials, making, and context in understanding the full meaning of an artwork.