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George Henschel
John Singer Sargent American
Not on view
German-born George Henschel (1850–1934) trained as a pianist before embarking on a career as a baritone. He and his first wife, soprano Lillian Bailey, toured Europe and America giving joint recitals. Henschel was the first conductor of the Boston Symphony Orchestra (1881–84), and later conducted the Royal Scottish National Orchestra (1893–95).
Henschel was impressed by Sargent’s talent as a pianist and his wide knowledge of music. Sargent in turn was an ardent admirer of the singer and the two became firm friends. This portrait was painted in approximately five sittings—or "standings"— during which Henschel was required to stand on a platform and sing for Sargent. When Henschel’s wife saw the portrait for the first time, she remarked, "How beautiful! It’s George having arrived in heaven."
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