Portrait of Lillian Browse
- Artist: Mané-Katz (Artists)
- Date: 1936
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Museum: The Courtauld Gallery
- Collection record: The Courtauld Gallery website
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About this artwork
This is the Portrait of Lillian Browse by Mané-Katz (Artists). Painted in 1936, the oil on canvas captures the energy and grace of Lillian Browse, a celebrated modern art dealer and scholar who lived from 1906 to 2005. The portrait reveals her striking presence, her eyes framed by a subtle smile that suggests both curiosity and confidence.
Mané‑Katz was among the first artists to meet Browse when she was a young dealer visiting Paris studios. In a relaxed moment, she wandered his studio, chatting casually, and he seized the opportunity to paint her likeness. The painting feels intimate, as if we’re sharing a private conversation, while still celebrating Browse’s influential role in the art world.
Browse’s legacy extends beyond this portrait; she bequeathed a substantial collection of paintings, drawings, and sculpture, enriching the cultural landscape. This work stands as a testament to her vibrant spirit and her impact on modern art appreciation.
See it in person
Portrait of Lillian Browse hangs in The Courtauld Gallery at Somerset House, London. Point your phone at any artwork there and audioguide.london plays a free audio guide in six languages — no app download needed.
