Ellen Seagraves AIFD EMC, Chic Floral Designs
Study of a Maiden
Photographed by Myron Fields Photography
Florist’s Interpretation
This interpretation of Jose Villegas' painting, "Girl in a White Dress,” focuses on my interpretation in thread, wire and florals, the fabric of the dress. As a former weaver and textile designer, fabrics have long been a major interest in my life.
Despite her marriage to the Doge of Venice and her symbolic status as the "Mother" of the citizens of the city, Maria Foscari, the subject of this painting, most likely had little agency over her life. Her power would have been strongest in her own household and one would hope over the choice of the dress she wore to her wedding. Venice has a rich history of textile arts and one can imagine that she had access to the finest fabrics and lace available.
It was a pleasure to combine my interests to create this piece.
-Ellen Seagraves
Study of a Maiden
This oil-on-canvas depiction of a maiden was created by Spanish artist José Villegas as a study in preparation for his monumental painting, The Triumph of the Dogaressa, that dominates the Great Staircase at Anderson House. The finished painting depicts part of the festivities that took place in Venice in 1424 celebrating the election of Francesco Foscari as doge, or leader, of the independent Italian city. The doge’s wife, Marina— whose title was dogaressa—prepares to join her husband on the state barge, which will take the couple from their family palazzo to the doge’s palace on St. Mark’s Square. The Andersons acquired this and two other studies at the same time as the final painting, for which they paid $17,000.
Artist/Creator: José Villegas y Cordero
Date of Creation: ca. 1882
Location: Second-floor landing, Great Staircase
Ellen Seagraves
“Incorporating textile techniques into her floral designs is a signature design style.”