TO THE RAMPARTS

Solving An Art-Historical Cold Case. Part One

A quick note to readers: This art-historical detective story will be unpacked in five episodes. If you’re enjoying this Substack column, sign up for a free subscription. If you’re already a regular follower, consider upgrading to paid subscriber. Your support is greatly appreciated!

During her lifetime, Eliza Pratt Greatorex (1819-1897) was celebrated by the American press as “the first artist of her sex”. Shortly after her death in Paris, a newspaper in a midwestern city where she never lived listed Greatorex among the most important women in American history. The story was published in syndication around the country. 125 years later, she is all but forgotten.

Left: Port de Samois, Moret-sur-Loing-et Orvanne, France. Center: Eliza Pratt Greatorex. by Thomas Boyle, Collection: National Academy of Design. Right: Restless Enterprise author Dr. Katherine Manthorne exploring Moret-sur-Loing, in search of Eliza’s final residence