1000 Museums

Cecilia Beaux was an American artist with French heritage, best known for her traditional portraitures. She began attending the Philadelphia Academy of the Fine Arts in 1876, subsequently winning the Mary Smith prize at exhibitions in 1886, 1887, 1891, and 1892. With her early education, Beaux became largely influenced by the Old Masters and her attention to detail and precision was a staple of her work. At the age of 32, she traveled and worked to France to advance her skills as an artist. There, she attempted to incorporate some of Impressionism\’s ideals in her work, eventually deciding that it did not suit her. Upon her return to the United States, she received many commissions throughout the rest of her life. Despite the revolutionary changes to American art occurring in the 20th century, Beaux and her circle of artists defended the old techniques.