CHAPTER XX.

THE NINETEENTH CENTURY.

EMMA STEBBINS.--Favorable Circumstances of her early Life to the Study of Art.--Specimens of her Skill shown in private Circles.--Receives Instruction from Henry Inman.--Correctness of her Portraits.--“A Book of Prayer.”--Revives Taste for Illuminations.--Her crayon Portraits.--Copies of Paintings.--Cultivates many Branches of Art.--Becomes a Sculptor.--Abode in Rome.--Instruction received from Gibson and Akers.--Late Work from her Chisel.--“The Miner.”--HARRIET HOSMER.--Dwelling of the Sculptor Gibson in Rome.--His Studio and Work-room.--“La Signorina.”--The American Sculptress.--Her Childhood.--Physical Training.--School-life.--Anecdotes.--Studies at Home.--At St. Louis.--Her Independence.--Trip on the Mississippi.--“Hesper.”--Departure for Rome.--Mr. Gibson’s Decision.--Extract from Miss Hosmer’s Letter.--Original Designs.--Reverse of Fortune.--Alarm.--Resolution.--Industry, Economy, and Success.--Late Works.--Visit of the Prince of Wales. 346

WOMEN ARTISTS.