Harris County, Texas is a place of immense cultural significance, home to some of the most iconic artworks in the world. Located just southwest of downtown Houston, the area boasts 19 museums that attract a staggering 9 million visitors each year. From the Virgin and Child by Rogier van der Weyden to Lady Justice by David Adickes, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Let's take a closer look at some of the most remarkable artworks in Harris County.
The Virgin and Child is an oil painting on oak panel by the early Dutch artist Rogier van der Weyden (1399-146). This Flemish master was one of the main figures of the so-called primitive Flemish people, artists from the Netherlands who were fundamental to the development of the Renaissance in Northern Europe. The painting depicts a Madonna and Child, with Mary holding her son Jesus in her arms. It is a beautiful example of early Renaissance art.
Portrait of an Old Woman
is another painting that takes you back in time, about 5 and a half centuries ago.It was painted by the famous Renaissance artist Hans Memling (1430-149), an artist who was born in Germany but who spent most of his career in Flanders. The painting portrays an elderly woman wearing a headdress and a fur-lined cloak. It is a stunning example of 15th century portraiture.
The Entrance to the Grand Canal in Venice
is a painting by a renowned Italian artist who focused mainly on landscapes named Giovanni Antonio Canal (1697-176), better known by his nickname Canaletto. This Rococo-era artist was from the Republic of Venice, but was active in several parts of Europe, including Venice, Rome, and London.The painting depicts a view of the Grand Canal from the Piazzetta di San Marco, with boats and gondolas sailing along its waters.
Ariadne Abandoned by Theseus
is a remarkable painting by Angelica Kauffman (1741-180), a Swiss artist who spent much of her time working abroad. She was one of the leading neoclassical artists of her time, a notion emphasized by this painting that presents a classic theme. The painting depicts Ariadne abandoned on an island after being betrayed by Theseus.Sheerness as Seen From the Nore
is one of the typical paintings of J, M, W. Turner (1775-185), the leading romantic painter of his time, who managed to capture the dramatic effects of the sea like no one else.This painting reflects the artist's primitive style, which is less confusing than his later works. The painting depicts Sheerness as seen from across the Nore estuary.
The Older Sister
is a fascinating work of art by William-Adolphe Bouguereau (1825-190), a French artist who produced some of the most amazing realistic paintings of the 19th century. Bouguereau was an academic painter who produced historical, mythological and contemporary paintings. The painting portrays an older sister looking after her younger sibling.Les Orangers
is one of the best-known works of the French impressionist artist Gustave Caillebotte (1848-189).He was a man who loved gardening and loved to represent orderly, well-groomed gardens. This idea is obvious from this remarkable composition. The painting depicts two orange trees in bloom.
Water Lilies
is one of the numerous paintings by Claude Monet (1840-192) depicting water lilies inside his garden pond. Monet spent the last decades of his life establishing his magnificent flower garden at his house in Giverny and painted approximately 250 versions of the water lilies in his pond.The painting portrays Monet's beloved water lilies in all their glory.
Woman with a Purple Coat
is one of the most fascinating paintings by Henri Matisse (1869-195), a man who was fundamental to the development of modern art at the beginning of the 20th century. This painting is considered to be one of the best examples of Matisse's mature and decorative style. The painting portrays Matisse's model Lydia Delectorskaya wearing an exotic purple coat.El Franco Lee Statue
is located at El Franco Lee Service Plaza, which surrounds Harris County Jury Assembly building at 1201 Congress St. It was made possible by momentum and generous support from Central Houston Management District and Harris County District One.The statue was sculpted by Chas Fagan and installed by Nigerian painter and artist Chief Jimoh Buraimoh as part of Commissioner Ellis' efforts to place public art throughout Harris County.
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