The Artist’s Wife and His Setter Dog c. 1884 - 1889

This painting by Thomas Eakins, "The Artist's Wife and His Setter Dog," is a quiet and intimate portrait of the artist's wife, Susan, sitting in a chair while reading. The painting is notable for its realism and attention to detail, characteristics that defined Eakins' work. Susan's relaxed pose, her dog curled up at her feet, and the soft natural light that bathes the room all contribute to the painting's sense of peaceful domesticity. Eakins was a pioneering figure in American art, known for his unflinching portrayals of everyday life.