Ernst Georg Fischer
The Flattered Spinster Lady
c. 1853-1854
Physical Qualities
Oil on canvas, 8 x 8-7/8 in. (20.3 x 22.6 cm.)
Credit Line
Gift of Mrs. Michael A. Abrams, in Memory of Dr. Michael A. Abrams
Object Number
1960.59
Ernst Georg Fischer developed an interest in narrative genre scenes during his studies in Dresden and Antwerp. Here, Fischer sets the scene in an artist’s studio – an important point of sale for painters before commercial galleries and exhibition venues began to proliferate late in the 19th century. His gently mocking image of an unmarriageable lady flattered by her portrait reminds viewers that every portrait was in fact a transaction between artist and patron, a rather fine line for an artist to walk.
The Baltimore Museum of Art by gift, 1960; from Mrs. Michael A. Abrams; Dr. Michael A. Abrams, by 1945
The Baltimore Museum of Art, "Two Hundred and Fifty Years of Painting in Maryland, May 11-June 17, 1945, no. 143, ill. p. 59 [as Coll. Dr. Michael Abrams]
The Baltimore Museum of Art, "American Paintings from the Museum's Collection," Summer 1976.
The Baltimore Museum of Art, "American Paintings from the Museum's Collection," Summer 1976.
Sona K. Johnston, "American Paintings 1750-1900 from the Collection of The Baltimore Museum of Art," Baltimore: The Baltimore Museum of Art, 1983, no. 45, p. 63.
Inscribed: FACE: LR, in red, "E F"
Artist
Ernst Georg Fischer
German, 1815-1874; working Baltimore, c. 1845-c. 1855
Meet Ernst Georg Fischer
On View: American Wing Second Floor, Scott 08
