Mrs. Frederick Mead (Mary Eliza Scribner) by John Singer Sargent. A dignified half-length portrait of an elderly woman with grey hair wearing a black dress and a light-colored bonnet with lavender ribbons.

Mrs. Frederick Mead (Mary Eliza Scribner)

John Singer Sargent

1893 · Oil Paint, Canvas

A sophisticated portrait by John Singer Sargent showcasing his characteristic fluid brushwork and sensitive characterization.

$243

For the selected configuration

From $129

3 frame sizes

Frame size
Frame color
Mount
Paper type
Glaze

Made to order in ~2 business days · Free U.S. standard shipping (typically 5–8 business days after dispatch)

Where it works

A balanced artwork with steady presence with warm, lived-in color — sits comfortably in a more formal setting.

Often works in
Living Room · Library · Study
Placement
Strong for entryways, narrow walls, and vertical placements
Walls
Best where a lighter wall gives it room to show
Color notes
Charcoal black, Rich brown, Olive green

About the piece

Painted in 1893, this portrait by the preeminent artist John Singer Sargent captures Mary Eliza Scribner (Mrs. Frederick Mead) with a refined, quiet dignity. The artist's mastery is evident in the subtle play of light across the subject’s face and the energetic, yet controlled, depiction of her dark lace and satin attire, characteristic of the Belle Époque.