Mr. and Mrs. I. N. Phelps Stokes
A hand-painted replica of John Singer Sargent’s masterpiece Mr. and Mrs. I. N. Phelps Stokes, 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.
Mr. and Mrs. I. N. Phelps Stokes is an oil painting created in 1897 by the renowned American portrait artist John Singer Sargent. The work depicts Edith Minturn Stokes and her husband, Isaac Newton Phelps Stokes, prominent figures in New York society during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The painting is notable for its unconventional composition and the way it reflects the evolving roles of women in society during this period.
Edith Minturn Stokes, the primary subject of the portrait, was a philanthropist and socialite known for her advocacy work and her involvement in various charitable causes. She was also a model for the Statue of the Republic, created by sculptor Daniel Chester French for the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago. In the painting, Edith is depicted standing confidently, dressed in a tailored white shirt and skirt, holding a parasol. Her attire and posture convey a sense of modernity and independence, which was unusual for female portraiture at the time.
Isaac Newton Phelps Stokes, Edith's husband, was an architect, historian, and author. He is best known for his multi-volume work The Iconography of Manhattan Island, a comprehensive history of New York City. In the painting, Isaac is positioned in the background, dressed casually in a suit, with his hands in his pockets. His relaxed stance contrasts with Edith's commanding presence, further emphasizing her as the focal point of the composition.
The painting was originally intended to feature only Edith, but Isaac was added to the composition later. This decision contributes to the dynamic interplay between the two figures and highlights their partnership. The work is also notable for its departure from the more formal and static style of traditional portraiture, showcasing Sargent's ability to capture the personalities and relationships of his subjects.
Mr. and Mrs. I. N. Phelps Stokes is part of the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, where it has been displayed since it was donated by the Stokes family in 1932. The painting remains a celebrated example of Sargent's skill in portraiture and his ability to adapt his style to reflect the changing social and cultural landscape of his time.
