George Peter Alexander Healy (American, 1813 -1894)
1860,oil on canvas.

Sallie Ward was one of the most notorious southern belles of the nineteenth century. A resident of Louisville she was known from Boston to New Orleans, not only for being vivacious, impetuous and fun-loving, but also for her scandalous actions. She was married four times, “painted” her face, and wore bloomers at formal events, all very shocking to the more staid members of society. Nonetheless she had numerous admirers who were quick to forgive her trespasses.

The Speed Museum