On the First Day of a Feminine Christmas
Although not a true “Christmas” image, Mrs. Charles Inches as painted by John Singer Sargent, bespeaks a festive Christmas party in her glowing claret gown.
I recently viewed Mrs. Inches portrait at Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts current exhibit “Fashioned by Sargent”. Displayed next to the wonderful painting was also the claret velvet dress with all its wondrous milky folds. I noted that Sargent dropped the dress’s bows to the shoulders which I think adds a sense of youth and charm to Mrs. Inches, whose first name was Louise, and was a young married Boston socialite. I also learned that she was expecting when her portrait was painted by Sargent.
What intrigued me most about this wonderful portrayal was a digitally-altered image of Mrs. Inches smiling warmly next to the original painting. In that image, her face was like a 21st century young woman one might see at the supermarket or at a shared yoga class. In the modified image, I could see “Louise” sitting in the living room at a Christmas open house, enjoying a holiday party with friends. By the way, you can view that image on the Museum of Fine Arts’ (MFA) website. It’s amazing what a smile can do…
Another fun aspect of the exhibit is that many women have been attending wearing lush dresses and costumes that mirror the 50 or so items of apparel that enhance the selected Sargent paintings. These can be viewed on Instagram using #mfaboston. My mini-research into Louise Inches and the MFA’s marvelous exhibit led me to an art and fashion post located here: https://www.pivada.com/en/art-and-fashion. You may enjoy these beautiful reinterpreted images of famous women from today.
Doing something special during the run-up to Christmas helps us take a breather from holiday tasks. For me, if it is fashion-related, I couldn’t be happier. I love viewing festive clothing from other eras and being out with the crowds in a way that is different from harried shopping. It reminds me to enjoy the convivial and joyous aspects of the season.
9 Comments
Julie Ann Basile
Wow —
You’re writing and what a gorgeous story and I enjoyed the comparison of the actresses in modern day — It did take me away from my work mind set. Are you visiting Naples, FL again this year? I loved meeting you at Thoughtful Threads! Your words to me and special attention that day I have not forgotten!!! Blessed and joyful holidays to you and your sister too! Love Julie
Julie Ann Basile
Wow — what a gorgeous story and I enjoyed the comparison of the actresses in modern day — It did take me away from my work mind set. Are you visiting Naples, FL again this year? I loved meeting you at Thoughtful Threads! YOur words to me that day I have not forgotten!!! Blessed and joyful holidays to you and your sister too! Love Julie
Marta Libby
I’m so excited you are continuing your series again! Each year I go back to your very first post, way back when…and re-read chronologically. Such joy; and a gift you have given us. Thank you!
A Lovely Inconsequence
Marta, that is so wonderful! Thank you for your kind readership! Music to a writer’s ears…
Dana
Love this post and the feminine Christmas series. Thanks for the MFA link- I took a peek and enjoyed the photo of Ms Inches smiling! Garnet velvet is a favorite of mine as it looks so festive. What a stunning portrait.
A Lovely Inconsequence
Dana, I’m glad you liked the smiling Mrs. Inches too!
Tracy
Sadly, I have a beautiful scarlet, velvet Eileen Fisher top ( from my late mother) that is about two sizes too small.
I’m keeping it; hoping to fit into it one day.
It is such a rich, mellow holiday color. Even the buttons are covered in velvet.
My question when I look at this painting is: what is she thinking?
A Lovely Inconsequence
Yes, keep it Tracy! She was probably thinking “Is he done yet?” LOL!
Karen
This is so lovely and it’s right on! It is a soul soother and brain breather when we can go to a social event or gathering at Christmas and it is not focused on consuming! Thank you so much for this gentle and fashionable reminder that there are wonderful events and venues we can visit that can inspire us without making us reach for our pocketbook. The portrait is stunning, and you are so right, that garnet dress is perfect for her Christmas party!!