Primulas (Translation)
Primeveres (Primary Title)
Unknown (French School) (Artist)
Formerly attributed to, Eugène Delacroix, French, 1798 - 1863 (Artist)
Women were not permitted to attend the École des Beaux-Arts until 1897, significantly limiting their opportunities for artistic education in France. Although some private art academies in Paris accepted female pupils, they were still prohibited from learning to draw from live nude models, which was thought to be inappropriate for young ladies, but was also considered a foundational component of an artist’s training in the 19th century. Instead, women turned to genres like still life. Flower painting in particular was seen as an acceptable subject matter for female artists. This watercolor was once thought to be by Delacroix, but the attribution has changed as new research has been conducted. Although the precise identity of the maker of this watercolor remains unknown, it was likely created by a woman artist.
Some object records are not complete and do not reflect VMFA's full and current knowledge. VMFA makes routine updates as records are reviewed and enhanced.
