The Muse (Primary Title)
Albert Herter, American, 1871 - 1950 (Artist)
This enigmatic image of late-nineteenth-century upper-class domestic life was painted by the multitalented Albert Herter. It depicts a young man slumped in a book-strewn interior, seemingly at a loss. Behind him a woman lays a gentle hand on his shoulder. Herter painted this picture at a time when the study, or library, was considered a “masculine” domain and when women were viewed as inspirational and nurturing figures.
Born into a family of accomplished cabinetmakers, Herter was both a painter and a craftsman. His father and uncle formed Herter Brothers, a prominent New York interior design firm. An elegant sofa, table, and chair produced by the company are on view in nearby galleries.
"Sixteenth Annual Exhibition of the Society of American Artists," Society of American Artists, New York (12 March - 14 April 1894) no. 189.
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