Lot 284: Ellen Robbins (American, 1828-1905) Still Life with Blue Gentians and Ferns Signed and dated "Ellen

Description

Robbins 1883" l.r. Watercolor on paper, sight size 18 3/4 x 14 1/4 in. (48 x 36.4 cm), framed. Condition: Subtle toning and fading, not examined out of frame. N.B. Ellen Robbins, a Massachusetts native, is best known for her floral still lifes. She often drew her inspiration from friend Celia Thaxter's garden on the Isles of Shoals, a favorite summer vacation spot. It has been noted that Robbins' work often resembles pressed flowers, a popular nineteenth century female pastime. Robbins work was recently included in the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, exhibition A Studio of Her Own, Fall 2001.