Supper c. 1861 - 1897

Jessie Willcox Smith created 'Supper', an illustration, likely with watercolor and ink, using paper as her support. Smith's masterful control over her chosen media is evident in the layering of colors and precise linework, which capture the textures and patterns of fabrics. The scene depicts a mother feeding her child supper, evoking a sense of warmth and domesticity. The material qualities of the artwork contribute to its sentimental appeal. The labor-intensive nature of traditional illustration, before digital technologies, should also be noted. Smith likely worked from photographs, or even directly with models, carefully rendering each detail by hand. Her dedication to craft elevates this illustration beyond mere commercial work, imbuing it with artistic value. By emphasizing the skill and time involved in its production, we can appreciate "Supper" not only as a sweet image, but also as a testament to Smith's expertise as a visual artist.