Frederick Law Olmsted 1895

John Singer Sargent’s 1895 portrait of Frederick Law Olmsted, the famed landscape architect, is a striking example of the artist’s mastery of realism. The painting, currently located at the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina, captures Olmsted in a serene setting, amidst a lush woodland backdrop. The artist's use of light and shadow beautifully illuminates Olmsted’s features, emphasizing his age and wisdom. The composition, with Olmsted standing amidst blooming rhododendrons and holding a walking stick, conveys a sense of tranquility and connection to nature. This portrait, a testament to Sargent’s skill, offers a glimpse into the life and work of a pivotal figure in American landscape design.