Breaking Bank & Breaking Boundaries
While her accomplishments are often overlooked in world history, Isidora Goyenechea Gallo was a remarkable Chilean industrialist who owned and managed coal mines, a silver mine, and even had her own trade fleet. She was one of the richest people in the world at the time and left behind a legacy that is remembered in Chile today. To celebrate her life, I created a portrait of her using gold as a tribute to her love of gold. She adored this precious metal so much that every corner of her home was filled with its gleaming radiance and now it also fills this stunning rendition as well.
Who Was Isidora Goyenechea Gallo?
Isidora Goyenechea Gallo (1836-1897) was a wealthy Chilean industrialist who owned and managed the coal mines in Lota and Coronel, the silver mines of Chañarcillo, the vineyard Viña Cousiño Macul, and her own trade fleet. The inspiration for this portrait came from reading about Isidora Goyenechea Gallo’s amazing life story. I wanted to honor her legacy by painting a piece that paid homage to her achievements. Gold seemed like the ideal medium to use, as it symbolizes wealth and power – two things Isidora possessed in abundance. She was, at the time, regarded as one of the richest people in the world and the gold coated mansion where she raised her family is now known as the Palacio Cousiño in Santiago de Chile.
The Power of Gold
The portrait itself is quite striking – it features Isidora wearing an overlay of gold lace draping over her delicately depicted face. The conscious manipulation of the values in the tints, tones, and shades of limited hues creates the illusion unity and texture. The overall effect is one of magnificence and grandeur, which perfectly captures Isidora’s larger-than-life persona.
Gold Has Significant Historical Implications
Gold has also been associated with many different cultures throughout history – from Ancient China to South America, where Isidora lived during her lifetime. It is my hope that this painting will help bring more attention to Isidora’s incredible story and encourage people around the world to learn more about this remarkable woman who made such an impact on Chilean history.
Why Should We Remember Her?
Despite going without mention in many world history classes, Isidora accomplished some amazing feats during her lifetime. She founded O'Higgins Park, which is a monumental park located in downtown Santiago de Chile. She also commissioned some incredible works of art, including a portrait of herself, which hangs in Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino today.
Conclusion
Isidora Goyenechea Gallo lived during a time when women were not typically seen as capable business owners or leaders. Despite these challenges, Isidora achieved great success and left behind an impressive legacy that should be remembered for generations to come. Not only did she manage to build successful businesses but also gave back to her community by founding O'Higgins Park which is now enjoyed by thousands of people each day. Let’s continue to celebrate female entrepreneurs around the globe!
This gorgeous painting is now available for acquisition.
