One of the most acclaimed artists of the late nineteenth century, Louis Comfort Tiffany is best known for his work in stained glass – but his career actually began with oil and watercolor painting depicting a variety of still-lifes and verdant landscapes. These works display the effects of painting en plein air and evoke the Hudson River School; Tiffany’s astonishing still-lifes show inspiration from Impressionism. This early body of work would prove to be a vital stepping stone to a creative and productive career in glass and a wide variety of media, shaping his inventive aesthetic.
A special exhibition of 26 paintings is now on view in the permanent collection gallery. These works are part of a generous gift from an anonymous donor.