In this piece we share insight into the Everett Shinn’s commission for Mai Coe’s Dressing Room. This commission came in 1924, nearly ten years after Shinn commenced work on the Tea House. Among other things, Mai Coe’s continued desire to work with Shinn is indicative of her enduring patronage of his work. The subject matter and execution of the paintings in the Dressing Room are very much a continuation of what was evoked by Shinn in the Tea House. Once again, we encounter soft-colored, romanticized scenes of couples in idealized landscapes. The panels are each framed by painted drapery and tassels, making the viewer feel slightly voyeuristic, which is especially fitting as all the depictions are of amorous couples.
The aesthetic departure in both the Tea House and the Dressing Room from the rest of the decoration of Coe Hall is suggestive of Mai’s taste. The French inspiration illustrated by soft pastel colors and decadent scenes is an interesting parallel to the dominating English aesthetic realized through carved wood furniture and sobering iconography.
Although they were made for a very specific context, the murals weren’t always at Planting Fields. In the late 1950s, the panels were removed and placed in storage. They were eventually sold and landed on the walls of a Manhattan apartment. After a stroke of fortune, the Foundation reacquired the panels some decades ago. They are the crowning jewel of the space, evoking a variety of sensibilities and giving hints into the whimsical character of Mai Coe.
Writing about this feature of Planting Fields is timely as Mai and William Coe’s bathrooms have just been reconstructed and are now open for the public to enjoy. The project was made possible by a generous grant from the Peggy N. and Roger G. Gerry Charitable Trust and was former Executive Director Henry Joyce’s vision. It is a great addition to the visitor experience, as these are not your ordinary bathrooms!
Please come and visit to see something new at a place you know very well!
Planting Fields Foundation Staff