Portrait of Mrs. Julia Ward Howe c. 1900

"Portrait of Mrs. Julia Ward Howe" is a c. 1900 photographic portrait by Sarah Choate Sears, now housed in the Art Institute of Chicago. The image features a close-up view of Mrs. Howe, an American author, poet, and social activist, known for writing the lyrics to the Battle Hymn of the Republic. Sears's photograph captures Howe's aging face, her gaze directed forward, her expression thoughtful. She is adorned with a delicate lace collar that adds a touch of elegance to the composition. The work exemplifies the realism and technical skill of American photography in the late 19th century.