Mrs. Eaton by Dante Gabriel Rossetti - c. 1863 - c. 1865 - 46.5 x 31.5 cm Cantor Arts Center at Stanford University Mrs. Eaton by Dante Gabriel Rossetti - c. 1863 - c. 1865 - 46.5 x 31.5 cm Cantor Arts Center at Stanford University

Mrs. Eaton

Black chalk and charcoal, with stumping • 46.5 x 31.5 cm
  • Dante Gabriel Rossetti - 12 May 1828 - 9 April 1882 Dante Gabriel Rossetti c. 1863 - c. 1865

This intricate charcoal and chalk portrait is believed to depict Fanny Eaton, a model of mixed heritage who posed for numerous Pre-Raphaelite artists. Born in Jamaica in 1835, Eaton moved to England as a child with her mother. After marrying James Eaton, a horse-cab proprietor and driver, and having her first child (they had 10 children in total), she began modeling at the Royal Academy of Arts, becoming a subject in several works by Rossetti and other notable artists. By 1881, Fanny Eaton was widowed and supporting herself as a seamstress. In her later years, she worked as a domestic cook and passed away at the age of 88, due to senile decay and syncope.

In this drawing, Rossetti emphasizes the sitter's face and neck, capturing a serene expression that imbues the piece with a sense of quiet introspection.

P.S. Dante Gabriel Rossetti is known for his timeless portrayals of women. Learn the stories of Rossetti's muses!