Mary Lizzie Macomber (American/Massachusetts, 1861-1916), "Contemplation", oil on canvas, signed with "M. L. Macomber/Studio" stamp lower left, 20" x 16". Framed. Mary Lizzie Macomber was an allegorical and genre painter who created works in a style reminiscent of the British Pre-Raphaelites. A native of Fall River, Massachusetts, she studied with Robert S. Dunning (1829-1905) and Frank Duveneck (1848-1919), and briefly attended the School of the Boston Museum of Fine Arts, before opening her own successful studio in Boston. Employing a deep, rich color palette and utilizing a stark contrast between light and shadow, her subjects, almost exclusively women, boldly encompass the canvas. As evidenced by the portrait presented here, this technique creates an emotionally compelling work which engages the viewer. Macomber exhibited widely during her life, including at the Pennsylvania Academy of Art, Boston Museum of Fine Arts, Carnegie Institute, and the National Academy of Design, and was the recipient of numerous awards. Reference: American Art Annual. M. Knoedler & Co. : New York, 1916.

In generally good condition. A small (approx. 1/8") dimple at center of figure's sternum. Possible old repair above proper right eyebrow. Evidence of past restoration: small areas of inpainting at left edge, top of hair, lower center in bodice, very small scattered other areas. Some craquelure. Soiling.