Anna May Wong
A hand-painted replica of Alice Pike Barney’s masterpiece Anna May Wong, meticulously crafted by professional artists to capture the true essence of the original. Each piece is created with museum-quality canvas and rare mineral pigments, carefully painted by experienced artists with delicate brushstrokes and rich, layered colors to perfectly recreate the texture of the original artwork. Unlike machine-printed reproductions, this hand-painted version brings the painting to life, infused with the artist’s emotions and skill in every stroke. Whether for personal collection or home decoration, it instantly elevates the artistic atmosphere of any space.
"Anna May Wong" is a portrait painting created by American artist Alice Pike Barney in 1934. The artwork depicts Anna May Wong, a pioneering Chinese American actress who became the first Asian American movie star and the first Chinese American actress to gain international recognition. Wong's career spanned silent film, sound film, television, stage, and radio.
Alice Pike Barney, born in 1857, was an influential painter and philanthropist known for her portraits and her support of the arts. She was part of the Washington, D.C. art scene and was involved in various cultural and social causes. Barney's work often focused on prominent figures of her time, and her portrait of Anna May Wong is a significant example of her ability to capture the essence of her subjects.
The portrait of Anna May Wong by Alice Pike Barney is notable for its vibrant use of color and the dignified yet approachable representation of Wong. The painting captures Wong's elegance and poise, reflecting her status as a trailblazer in the entertainment industry. Wong is depicted wearing traditional Chinese attire, which highlights her cultural heritage and the roles she often portrayed in Hollywood films.
Anna May Wong, born Wong Liu Tsong in 1905 in Los Angeles, California, faced numerous challenges in her career due to the pervasive racial discrimination in the United States during the early 20th century. Despite these obstacles, she achieved significant success and became a symbol of progress for Asian Americans in the arts. Wong's notable films include "The Toll of the Sea" (1922), "Shanghai Express" (1932), and "Piccadilly" (1929). She also worked in Europe, where she found more substantial and varied roles compared to Hollywood.
The portrait by Barney is an important cultural artifact that not only celebrates Wong's contributions to the arts but also serves as a reminder of the struggles and achievements of Asian Americans in the early 20th century. The painting is part of the collection at the Smithsonian American Art Museum, where it continues to be an important piece for both its artistic merit and its historical significance.
Alice Pike Barney's portrayal of Anna May Wong is a testament to the intersection of art and social history, capturing the likeness of a woman who broke barriers and paved the way for future generations of Asian American performers. The painting remains a powerful symbol of Wong's legacy and the broader narrative of diversity and representation in the arts.
