Ellen Wallace Sharples Paintings

Ellen Wallace Sharples was an English painter who specialized in portrait miniatures and pastel portraits, achieving notable success in her lifetime. Born in Birmingham in 1769, she was one of the prominent female artists of her time, navigating the challenges of a male-dominated art world with exceptional skill and determination.

Ellen was married to James Sharples, an acclaimed portraitist, and the couple shared a deep connection both personally and professionally. They had several children, with some sources suggesting that their offspring, including James Sharples Jr., also pursued careers in art, following in their parents' footsteps.

The Sharples family moved to the United States in the late 18th century, where Ellen and James quickly established themselves as sought-after portraitists among America's elite society. They traveled extensively across the country, capturing the likenesses of many prominent figures of the era, including George Washington, whose portraits by the Sharples are among the most celebrated.

Ellen Wallace Sharples was known for her exquisite technique in pastel, which allowed her to capture both the physical likeness and the subtle nuances of personality of her subjects. Her miniatures, often encased in locket or small frames, were highly prized for their delicacy and precision.

After the death of her husband in 1811, Ellen continued to work and teach art in order to support her family. She returned to England with her children, where she remained active in the art scene, exhibiting her works and contributing to the artistic community until her death in 1849.

Ellen Wallace Sharples left behind a legacy of artistic excellence and perseverance. Her works are preserved in several prestigious collections and museums, serving as a testament to her skill and her significant contribution to the art world of the 18th and 19th centuries.