Charles Cromwell Ingham – Cora Livingston National Gallery of Art (Washington)

The portrait presents a young woman seated and holding a stringed instrument, likely a guitar or similar folk instrument. She is positioned centrally within the composition, facing directly towards the viewer with a steady gaze. The lighting emphasizes her face and upper torso, creating a sense of intimacy and direct engagement.
Her attire consists of a low-cut, dark red velvet gown that drapes loosely over her shoulders, suggesting both elegance and informality. The fabric’s texture is rendered with considerable detail, highlighting the artists skill in capturing material qualities. Her hair, styled in loose curls around her face, frames her features and contributes to an overall impression of youthful beauty.
The background is a dark, muted green curtain, which serves to isolate the figure and direct attention towards her. The simplicity of the backdrop reinforces the focus on the subjects character and presence. The instrument she holds appears slightly worn, suggesting familiarity and perhaps a history of use. Her hands are positioned delicately on the strings, hinting at musicality without depicting an active performance.
Subtleties within the painting suggest layers of meaning beyond a simple likeness. The directness of her gaze conveys confidence and intelligence. The choice of a folk instrument rather than a more formal classical one might imply a connection to nature, domesticity, or perhaps a rejection of rigid societal expectations. The velvet gown, while luxurious, is not overly ornate, suggesting a balance between refinement and approachability.
The overall effect is that of a carefully constructed portrait intended to convey not only physical resemblance but also aspects of the subject’s personality and social standing – a woman who possesses both grace and an independent spirit.