Olivia Simes Morris
James Peale · 1814
- Medium
- Oil on canvas
- Original size
- 71.8 × 61 cm (28 3/4 × 24 in.)
- Currently held
- Art Institute of Chicago
- Movement
- Neoclassicism
Painted in the twilight of James Peale's portraiture career, this intimate likeness of Olivia Simes Morris radiates the quiet dignity and precise craftsmanship that defined Philadelphia's Federal-era portraiture. James Peale (1749–1831) spent much of his career in the shadow of his celebrated elder brother Charles Willson Peale, yet carved out a distinctive reputation for refined miniatures and small-scale portraits. In his full-scale oils he brought the same exacting attention to surface detail — the sheen of silk, the softness of lace, the delicate modelling of a face — that made his miniatures so prized. This portrait of Morris exemplifies his mature style: a controlled palette, assured drawing, and a sitter rendered with both warmth and reserve. James Peale was a founding member of the Columbianum, America's first art academy, established in Philadelphia in 1795 alongside his brother and other leading painters of the day. This hand-painted oil reproduction is produced on canvas using traditional pigments and layered glazing techniques, ensuring the tonal subtlety and surface quality of the original — now held in the Art Institute of Chicago — are faithfully carried through to your wall.
Hand-painted oil reproduction
Painted in real oil on stretched canvas by master copyists. Delivered unframed — ready to frame at home.
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In Peale's style.
Send us a photograph of your family, pet, or home — we'll paint it as a custom oil on stretched canvas in any style you like. From £220.
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