Amalia Kussner was one of the preferred artists of Gilded Age New York, especially in the 1890s when she painted miniature portraits of the elites. Fans of the critically acclaimed HBO series, The Gilded Age, will appreciate Kussner’s portraits of several key characters, including Mrs. Astor, the reigning matriarch of the social scene and her two daughters; famed actress Lillian Russell; English soprano Marie Tempest; and wealthy socialite Consuelo Vanderbilt.  Kussner even met Ward McAllister, the arbiter of Gilded Age society. He advised her not to pursue her career as an artist and, thankfully, she ignored him.

In this program, author and historical researcher Kathleen Langone will reveal how Kussner’s portraits and interactions with these famous people can provide more insights into their extravagant lives.

Kathleen Langone is the host of the podcast People Hidden In History and the author of the book Miniature Painter Revealed: Amalia Kussner’s Gilded Age Pursuit of Fame and Fortune.

This program is held in collaboration with the Bacon Free Library and the Tewksbury Public Library.

Please register to receive the Zoom link.

RECORDING NOTE: This program will be recorded. All registrants will receive the recording via email within 48 hours of the program.