Rebecca Solomon Paintings

Rebecca Solomon was a notable figure in the Victorian art world, a period during which female artists fought for recognition in a predominantly male-dominated field. Born in London into a family of artists, Rebecca was the sister of Simeon Solomon, a well-known Pre-Raphaelite painter, and Abraham Solomon, a genre painter. Despite the limitations placed on women in the arts during the 19th century, she managed to carve out a career for herself, exhibiting her works at prestigious institutions such as the Royal Academy of Arts, the Society of British Artists, and the Dudley Gallery.

Rebecca Solomon's oeuvre includes a variety of subjects, ranging from genre scenes reflecting everyday life to historical and biblical themes. She was deeply influenced by the social issues of her time and often incorporated themes of social justice into her work. One of her notable paintings, 'The Governess,' depicts the isolation and societal position of a governess, reflecting Solomon's awareness and critique of the social constraints faced by women.

Despite her talent and contributions to the art world, Rebecca Solomon's work was largely overlooked after her death, and she remained relatively unknown for many years. However, recent scholarship and exhibitions have begun to re-evaluate her contribution to Victorian art, recognizing her as an important figure in the era's artistic landscape.

Solomon's career faced challenges not only due to her gender but also because of her Jewish heritage, which was a subject of prejudice in Victorian England. Nevertheless, she persisted in her artistic endeavors, contributing significantly to the art of her time. Her legacy, now being rediscovered, highlights the importance of re-examining historical narratives to include voices that were previously marginalized.

Rebecca Solomon's death in 1886 was a result of a tragic accident. She was run over by a cab in central London, an untimely end to a life and career that are only now being fully appreciated for their contributions to the art world. As more of her works are studied and displayed, Rebecca Solomon's standing as a pioneering female artist in the Victorian era continues to grow, offering inspiration to future generations.