Description
Edwin Austin Abbey's painting "A Lute Player 1899 (A Lute Player)" is a masterpiece of Victorian art that has captivated art lovers for over a century. This painting is a perfect example of the artistic style of the time, which was characterized by attention to detail, precision and elegance.
The composition of the painting is impressive, with the central figure of the lute player framed by a stone arch and a landscape in the background. The woman's figure is delicate and graceful, with a posture that suggests she is completely absorbed in her music. The lute he holds in his hands is rendered in great detail, with every string and detail of the instrument carefully painted.
The paint color is another highlight. The soft, warm tones of the women's clothing and the landscape in the background create a feeling of tranquility and serenity. The gold and brown tones of the lute and stone arch add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the painting.
The history of the painting is also fascinating. It was commissioned by American businessman John D. Rockefeller for his New York home, and became one of the most famous works in his collection. The painting was exhibited at the World's Fair in Paris in 1900, where it received a gold medal.
But there are lesser-known aspects of the painting that are also interesting. For example, the model for the lute player is believed to have been the artist's wife, Mary Gertrude Mead. Also, the painting was created at a time when music was an important part of social life in high society, and you can see from the painting the importance that music was given at the time.