The artwork titled “Mrs. Cecil Wade,” created by John Singer Sargent in 1886, is an oil painting on canvas. Measuring 162.6 x 134.6 cm, this piece represents the Realism art movement and falls under the genre of portraiture.
This painting depicts an elegant woman seated indoors, adorned in an exquisitely detailed white gown that displays intricate lace and embroidered patterns. The meticulous brushwork highlights the sheen of the fabric, capturing the play of light across its surface. The subject’s posture is relaxed yet dignified, with her hands delicately holding a fan. Behind her, the room is dimly lit, contrasting with the stream of warm light filtering through a window at the back, enhancing the overall depth and ambiance of the scene. The composition and rendering exemplify Sargent’s mastery in capturing both the physical likeness and the refined, contemplative demeanor of his subject.