At over seven feet tall, Portrait of Norah Gribble is among the largest portraits John Singer Sargentpainted, which is particularly fitting as Norah Gribble herself was said to be larger than life witha feisty outsized personality and a commanding presence. This presence is on full display in theportrait, as Norah engages the viewer with an alluring gaze.Mindy’s choice of counterpart artwork is befitting of the aura that Norah seems to project. Beautythat is at once elegant and striking, yet also unquestionably subtle in some respects. Norah’sdark dress is quite formal and eye-catching; her jewelry is quiet and understated. We can note asolitary diamond on one hand, and just peeking out from her slipper there appears to be a crystal orrhinestone. Yet they still seem to understand the small supporting role they play, deferring to Norahas the unquestionably lead character in the story.In Mindy’s counterpart artwork we can see the same theme of respectful elegance. The jewelry issimple in its hue, with the artist choosing from a blue palette attenuated just enough to carefullyavoid upstaging the dress, yet with a selection of rhinestones and crystals that unmistakably tell thestory of exquisite luxury and refinement. The silver lace in Mindy’s pieces is of an ethereal nature,serving perhaps as a dance partner to the gossamer boa that Norah displays; both the boa and laceare unquestionably light on their feet.The gown that has been chosen to complement Mindy’s pieces is as stunning as the creations withwhich it is paired. The dress is a Rubin Singer original, worn to an event by Taubman Museum of ArtBoard of Trustee member Joanne Leonhardt Cassullo. The Singer dress has a navy-blue overskirt thatsuggests possible lineage to the bustles that were popular in the late 1800s, as seen in Norah’s dress.Both Norah’s dress and accessories as well as Singer’s design with Mindy’s lovely accoutrements areformal attire that speak to the chicest of styles in their respective eras.8Right: John Singer Sargent(American, 1856-1925)Portrait of Norah Gribble, 1888Oil on canvasTaubman Museum of ArtAcquired with Funds Provided by theHorace G. Fralin Charitable Trust,2000.021Opposite page (left to right):Sterling Garden: Neck PieceSilver copper wire, sterling silver,Swarovski crystals, vintage rhinestonesCourtesy of a Private CollectionSterling Garden: CuffSilver copper wire, sterling silver,Swarovski crystals, vintage rhinestonesCourtesy of a Private Collection9
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