New Eyes on America: The Genius of Richard Caton Woodville

Painter of iconic works of American genre, Richard Caton Woodville (1825–55) led a life of paradox. Born and raised in Baltimore, he produced most of his paintings in Europe, where he died at 30. Although he left behind fewer than 20 paintings, his images were widely known in his time through reproduction as premium prints. His humorous characterizations of contemporary life, realistic depictions of period interiors and use of narrative detail, give viewers many points of access to these beautifully crafted works of art and to a fascinating period of American and European history. In this first exhibition devoted to Woodville since 1967, the Walters’ rich holdings and several key loans will be assembled to explore the formation, historical and social context, and contemporary reception of this engaging painter.