The years following the Civil War witnessed great changes for the United States in industry, immigration, and social issues. Wealthy industrialists hoping to acquire culture commissioned various artists to create portraits and landscapes reflective of the changes sweeping the nation.
Artists such as John Singer Sargent brought a new sophistication and elegance into American art. Sargent (1856-1925) was a portrait painter from London, England. He was one of the most sought-after artists of the time. Willam Merritt Chase (1849-1916) from Williamsburg, Indiana was one of the first Americans to be associated with the growing Impressionistic art movement taking hold in Europe.
Artists such as John Singer Sargent brought a new sophistication and elegance into American art. Sargent (1856-1925) was a portrait painter from London, England. He was one of the most sought-after artists of the time. Willam Merritt Chase (1849-1916) from Williamsburg, Indiana was one of the first Americans to be associated with the growing Impressionistic art movement taking hold in Europe.