E. F. (Elizabeth Fries) Ellet
Women artists in all ages and countries
"Women Artists in All Ages and Countries" by E. F. Ellet is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. This work explores the contributions, struggles, and achievements of female artists throughout different eras and cultures, highlighting their often overlooked roles in the history of art. The opening portion of the book sets the stage for this exploration by discussing the early ages of women's involvement in art, particularly in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Ellet provides an overview of famous women artists from antiquity, such as Kora (daughter of Dibutades) and Laya, the Roman painter, while also detailing the societal constraints that limited women's artistic expression. The author emphasizes how women, despite servitude and degradation, contributed significantly to art, crafting domestic creations, and influencing early artistic movements. Through this lens, Ellet aims to create a narrative that inspires respect and admiration for women's artistic endeavors across history.