Library at Arbour Hill (Olcott interior) (1878). Walter Launt Palmer (American, 1854-1932). Oil on c
Library at Arbour Hill (Olcott interior) (1878). Walter Launt Palmer (American, 1854-1932). Oil on canvas. Albany Institute of History & Art.This work shows Thomas Worth Olcott, a prominent Albany businessman, in the library of his home, Arbour Hill. The scene reveals far more about the sitter than simply a likeness of his face. We see, for example, that this is the comfortable and stylish home of a wealthy family. Both the library (in the foreground) and the parlor feature lavish and fashionable decorations, such as the Japanese screen in the parlor. The liberal display of books shows the family’s literary bent. The abundant detail is rendered in a way that is readable, but without hiding the brushwork. -- source link
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