Born in Philadephia, Pennsylvania, Jessie Willcox Smith (1863–1935) was one of the most famous artists of her time, rising to prominence during the Golden Age of Illustration. Largely forgotten today by the mainstream, Smith created a series of beautiful illustrations for the 1912 edition of Clement C. Moore’s Christmas classic, ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas: A Visit from St. Nicholas, published by Houghton Mifflin.
Who was Jesse Willcox Smith?
Jessie Willcox Smith was one of the most prominent female illustrators in the United States during the Golden Age of Illustration (1875–1920). During this period, artists like Smith, Howard Pyle, and F.O.C. Darley rose to prominence for their detailed illustrations in books and magazines. Smith was a frequent contributor to Good Housekeeping.
Violet Oakley, Jessie Wilcox Smith, Elizabeth Shippen Green, and Henrietta Cozens, ca. 1901.Photo byWikimedia
Early Life and Education
Jessie Willcox Smith was born in Philadelphia on September 6, 1863. Her parents were Charles Harry Smith, an investment broker, and Katherine DeWitt Willcox Smith. In 1879, she was sent to Cincinnati, Ohio, to complete her education and become a Kindergarten teacher.