Sarah Homes Tappan (Mrs. Benjamin Tappan)
1814
Medium
oil on wood
Dimensions
overall: 72.8 x 58.6 cm (28 11/16 x 23 1/16 in.) framed: 90.2 x 78.7 x 8.3 cm (35 1/2 x 31 x 3 1/4 in.)
Classification
Painting
Department
CAB
Museum
National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
Credit
Gift of Lady Vereker
Accession Number
1970.34.3
Art Historical Context
Gilbert Stuart, one of America’s most celebrated portrait painters of the early republic, created this elegant likeness of Sarah Homes Tappan in 1814. Known for his ability to capture both physical resemblance and personal character, Stuart had already achieved fame for his iconic images of George Washington and other leading figures of the young nation. Painted during the final years of the War of 1812, the work reflects the refined tastes of New England’s prominent families, of which the Tappans were part. Executed in oil on wood rather than the more common canvas, the portrait demonstrates...
About the Artist
Gilbert Stuart
Gilbert Stuart (1755–1828) was born on December 3, 1755, in Saunderstown, Rhode Island. He received his first painting instruction from local portraitist Samuel King, then studied under Scottish artist Cosmo Alexander who brought him to Scotland in 1771. After Alexander died, Stuart returned to Newport before sailing to London in 1775, where he entered the studio of Benjamin West for approximately...