19 century collection
Oil on canvas, 87.3 x 101cm
Accession Number WAG2640
The senses were a favourite subject for artists in the 17th century. They were usually represented in a fairly literal manner.
Swynnerton, however, has painted an angel who seems to have descended to earth and now relies on her sight to re-establish her links with heaven. Her rapturous expression suggests not just sight but a vision.
Swynnerton was a strong believer in equality for women in art. She was a founder of the Manchester Society of Women Painters. In 1922 she became the first female associate of the Royal Academy since the 18th century.
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