William Morris Hunt
Artist
Helen Mary Knowlton
(American, 1832–1918)
Date1880
Mediumoil on canvas
Dimensionscanvas: 102.2 x 76.8 cm (40 1/4 x 30 1/4 in.)
ClassificationsPaintings
Credit LineGift of Helen M. Knowlton
Object number1896.1
Label TextIn 1896—two years before officially opening to the public—the Museum acquired its first work in the collection: a portrait by Worcester native Helen Mary Knowlton. An author, educator, and art critic for The Boston Post, Knowlton was one of fifty women artists who studied under William Morris Hunt at the Studio Building in Boston’s Park Square. In her first-ever portrait, the artist memorializes her esteemed instructor after his unfortunate death in 1879. Knowlton amplifies the use of light and dark, illuminating Hunt’s forehead and hands to indicate his artistic ability and contemplative nature. By applying his methods of lively brushwork, Knowlton testifies to Hunt’s enduring legacy and her dedication as an artist under his mentorship.
ProvenanceHelen M. KnowltonOn View
Not on view
