Remember the portrait I found at the Lucketts Spring Market earlier this year? The one I saw a couple of years ago at the fall market, thought about, wished I had bought it, and then came face to face with it again? The woman in the blue dress with the dog on her lap? Yep, this one…
Well, I realized I never photographed where I hung it in the house! I used to share home updates, even small adjustments, almost the same day they happened. Now, it’s two months later, and I finally got the camera out and took some pictures of it.
Last year, as I was thinning down my ironstone collection, I decided to take down the open shelves on this small wall in the kitchen eating area. I enjoyed the shelves while they were there, but they started to feel a little crowded, so I took them down, and that wall has been blank for over a year. I knew I wanted to hang a painting there and, while I’ve been tempted to keep and hang a few of my own there, I really wanted to find an antique painting.
As I was putting together my short mental shopping list for the Lucketts Spring Market, I actually thought, I want to buy a portrait, something like the one I saw a couple of years ago. And then I had a second crack at it, which doesn’t often happen in the world of antique market shopping. Usually, you miss out on a fabulous piece if you simply walk away to think about it. I thought the size, colors, and subject would be perfect for that spot and they are.
The painting adds just enough visual interest, color, and personality to the wall without making that corner look too busy.
I really do love this painting. I admire it every time I walk past it. Sometimes, I lean in to look at the brushwork on the dog and the color variations in the background and dress, studying it a bit more, just as I would if I saw it in a museum.
The blues in the portrait are just right for my color palette, and the dark green background speaks beautifully to the dark green kitchen cabinets.
Of course, my favorite parts of the painting are the dog and the blue dress. The dog’s expression makes me smile, and I’ve always loved drawing and painting clothing. I’ve painted some shoes and done lots of sketches of dresses over the years, but I might try painting more clothes. They can be a portrait in their own right, since clothing often speaks volumes about the person who wore the garment, the time period, etc.
Not only do I love the portrait, but I feel like I was meant to have it. I don’t know anything about the woman, the artist who painted it, or where it came from, but it’s landed in a home where it is loved and appreciated.
14 Responses
A beautiful portrait and place to hang it. Perhaps you could find a pic of an old lady holding a cat.I don’t have a cat, but the other is available.
I’ve been so eager for more of this kind of content! Love your house photos and decor and rearranging furniture, etc. etc. I like the look of the blank wall and the painting taking center stage there.
It’s perfect there! I immediately thought how nicely it must go with your kitchen cabinets.
As someone who has hoped an antique would show up again after not purchasing it, I know it is nearly impossible to find the same item again. I’m so happy for you!
I’m hoping a piece of copper I admired will show up at Gold Rush again this year. I’ve been regretting not purchasing it last year.
I loved this painting from a distance, but when you zoomed in and took a picture of the details on the dress…swoon!!
I love John Singer Sargent’s portraits as much for the clothing as anything….that man can paint a piece of lace that takes your breath away on close inspection!
So happy for you..and for the portrait!
That painting is so YOU that it was clear that you were meant to have it. (I can totally see you wearing that dress also.) From now on when you shop for antiques, you will never pass up what you’re really drawn to, because your luck in finding a particular item a year later will never happen again!
The composition, subject matter & palette fits your vibe in every way and is perfect for that spot. Truly your kitchen angel!
So, did you name her and give her a backstory ? Do tell !
I love the serendipity of this discovery you made. The dress is yummy. And the jewelry!!! It is perfect.
It’s perfect!
I love your FIL–I laughed out loud at his droll suggestion! Also enjoy seeing your home again.
The dress is stunning but I am most impressed with her hands. So beautiful.
Couldn’t be more perfect for that spot in your kitchen/dining. The style, and the colours, in the painting are absolutely perfect for your home.
I always love seeing your home updates. Thank you for sharing.
It’s a beautiful portrait and looks great there! I laughed out loud at your FIL’s comment above! 😂
Can’t wait for your new book!