In the hands of a lesser artist, the sitter in this portrait, New York socialite Margaret Louisa Vanderbilt Shepard, might have been overwhelmed by the extravagant dress she wears, which rivets the viewer¡¯s attention with its vivid red color and voluminous folds. John Singer Sargent, however, effortlessly balances Mrs. Shepard¡¯s fashion with her personality, displaying the calmness, dignity and charm of this modest mother of six. Such assured handling, sensitivity and brilliant technique made Sargent a sought-after portraitist in late nineteenth- and early-twentieth century Europe and America. Title Margaret Louisa Vanderbilt, Mrs. Elliott Fitch Shepard Creator John Singer Sargent Date Created 1888 Location Created New York, United States Physical Dimensions 84 1/2 x 48 1/2 in. (214.6 x 123.2 cm) Type Painting Medium Oil on canvas Credit Line Purchased with funds provided by the Lillie and Roy Cullen Endowment
