Inseparables

Born in South Africa, Florence Fuller moved to Melbourne as a child and became a leading portrait painter in the late 1880s. She began her studies at the National Gallery of Victoria Art School when she was 16 and she later trained under her uncle, the renowned portraitist Robert Dowling, as well as artist Jane Sutherland, before establishing her own studio. Following her early success in Australia, Fuller continued her studies at the Académie Julian in Paris, exhibiting at both the Paris Salon and London’s Royal Academy. She went on to become one of the most important Australian artists of the Federation period and, as a committed Theosophist, sought to express the “hidden inner life” of her subjects.

While abroad, Fuller painted Inseparables, a large, intimate scene of a young girl reading in an armchair. Acquired by the Art Gallery of South Australia in 1900 shortly after its debut at the third Federal Art Exhibition of the South Australian Society of Arts, the work was praised by critics as “a clever study,” admired for its perceptive observation and clarity. The painting’s gentle interplay of light and shadow, along with its warm, enclosed atmosphere, reveals Fuller’s sensitivity to mood and her refined sense of composition.

We hope that today you can find your own moment of coziness and calmness, like the girl on the painting!

P.S. Are you interested in art history and looking for some book recommendations? Here is a list of essential books for art historians (and art lovers)! 

P.P.S. As the holidays draw near, bring a touch of warmth and beauty to your gift list. Our Christmas & Holiday Season Postcards Set is the perfect way to share art, coziness, and joy with the ones you love. 🎁