American Painters in Italy: From Copley to Sargent

Since the founding of the United States, American painters have been attracted to the celebrated art, ancient ruins, and picturesque scenery of Italy. This exhibition of works from the Museum's collection will feature watercolors, drawings, and sketchbooks by 18 American artists who traveled to and were inspired by Italy from the late 18th to the early 20th century. 

Among the best known will be John Singleton Copley, Thomas Sully, George Inness, James McNeill Whistler, Maurice Prendergast, and John Singer Sargent. Sargent, who was born in Italy and maintained a lifelong interest in the country's art and scenery, will be represented by 10 works, including an early scrapbook never before shown at The Met.

Organized thematically, American Painters in Italy will begin with views of the landscape around Rome, the campagna, and southern Italy. The second section will feature images of Venice, which was a particularly popular destination for artists in the late 19th century. The final section will focus on works in which the artists copied Italian art as an educational exercise or to signify their sophistication and worldliness.

Credit: Exhibition overview from museum website