Is Mrs. William Astor under copyright?

No, this artwork is in the public domain.

Get a print of Mrs. William Astor - carolus-duran (charles-auguste-emile durand)

Collectible Description

The painting Mrs. William Astor by Carolus-Duran (Charles-Auguste-Emile Durand) is a stunning example of the artist's ability to capture the essence of his subjects. Created in 1890, this oil on canvas portrait is a masterpiece of elegance and sophistication. The subject, Caroline Webster Schermerhorn, was a prominent figure in New York society, and Carolus-Duran has perfectly captured her refined and dignified personality.

The Artist's Style

Carolus-Duran was a French painter known for his stylish depictions of members of high society. His use of bold colors and masterful brushwork created a sense of luxury and opulence in his paintings. In Mrs. William Astor, he has used these techniques to create a portrait that is both beautiful and imposing. The painting is characterized by its use of dark, rich colors, which gives it a sense of depth and complexity.

The Painting's History

The painting Mrs. William Astor is now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. It has been exhibited in several notable exhibitions, including "Portraits of Women" at the National Academy of Design in 1894. The painting has also been featured in various publications, including the ArtsDot.com collection of handmade oil painting reproductions.

The painting measures 83 1/2 x 42 1/4 inches and is signed, dated, and inscribed by the artist.
The subject, Caroline Webster Schermerhorn, was a member of the wealthy Astor family.
The painting is considered one of Carolus-Duran's most important works and is highly regarded for its beauty and historical significance.

Handmade oil painting reproductions of Mrs. William Astor are available at ArtsDot.com, allowing art lovers to own a piece of history. The website also features other works by Carolus-Duran, including Henri Fantin-Latour, which can be found in the ArtsDot.com collection. For more information on Carolus-Duran and his works, visit Wikipedia.
The painting Mrs. William Astor is a testament to the skill and artistry of Carolus-Duran, and its beauty and historical significance make it a must-see for anyone interested in art and history.

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Artist Biography

Carolus-Duran: Life and Legacy

Early Life and Education

Born: Charles Auguste Émile Durand on July 4, 1837, in Lille, France.
His early artistic training began with lessons from local sculptor Augustin-Phidias Cadet de Beaupré at the Académie de Lille.
He furthered his education under François Souchon, a student of Jacques-Louis David, focusing on painting techniques.
In 1853, he moved to Paris and adopted the name “Carolus-Duran,” marking a pivotal moment in his artistic identity.

Artistic Development and Influences

Initially influenced by the Realism of Gustave Courbet, Carolus-Duran’s style evolved significantly after a scholarship allowed him to travel to Rome and Spain (1862-1866).
Diego Velázquez became a crucial influence during his time in Spain. He admired Velázquez's mastery of light, color, and psychological insight.
He moved away from the stark realism of Courbet towards a more refined and elegant style, characterized by sophisticated brushwork and attention to detail.

Career and Notable Works

Carolus-Duran gained recognition for his portraits of wealthy members of Third Republic France’s high society. He captured their elegance and status with remarkable skill.
Notable works include:

Lady with a Glove (1869) – exemplifies his refined portrait style.
Mrs. William Astor (1890) – a striking depiction of a prominent socialite.
After the Swimming (1899) – showcases his ability to capture movement and atmosphere.
The Artist's Daughter, Marie-Anne (1874) - A more intimate portrait demonstrating a softer side of his style.

He also painted portraits that contrasted with his usual subjects, such as his gardener, employing looser strokes and earth tones.

Teaching and Legacy

Carolus-Duran was a highly respected teacher. His studio on the Boulevard du Montparnasse became a center for artistic training.
Among his most famous pupils were:

John Singer Sargent
Irving Ramsey Wiles
Kenyon Cox

He served on juries at the Expositions Universelles in 1889 and 1900, demonstrating his standing within the art world.
In 1890, he co-founded the second Société Nationale des Beaux-Arts and was elected to the Académie des Beaux-Arts in 1904.

Honors and Final Years

He received numerous honors throughout his career, including being named a Knight of the Légion d'honneur (1872) and progressing through its ranks to Grand Officer (1900).
Carolus-Duran was a frequent visitor to Fréjus, where he owned a villa. After his death in 1917, the resort named a plaza and beach in his honor.
Historical Significance: Carolus-Duran bridged the gap between Realism and Impressionism, influencing a generation of artists with his elegant style and technical skill. His emphasis on capturing personality and social status made him a significant figure in 19th-century French art.

carolus-duran (charles-auguste-emile durand)

1837 - 1917

Quick Facts

Birth Date: 1837
Birth Place: Lille, France
Death Date: 1917
Influenced:
- John Singer Sargent
- Irving Ramsey Wiles
- Kenyon Cox
Influenced By: Gustave Courbet, Diego Velázquez
Movement: Realism, Portraiture
Name: Carolus-Duran
Nationality: French
Notable Works:
- Lady with a Glove
- Mrs. William Astor
- After the Swimming
- The Artist's Daughter, Marie-Anne