'American Watercolor' showcases masterpieces of movement

"American Watercolor in the Age of Homer and Sargent" at the Philadelphia Museum of Art marks the 150th anniversary of the American Watercolor Society's first exhibit and gives visitors a rare opportunity to view over 175 masterpieces on loan from public and private collections around the country.

The works are so fragile that institutions don't like to lend them out, and many spend most of their time in boxes, said curator Kathy A. Foster.

Because of the sensitivity of the pieces, the exhibit will not travel and can only be seen in Philadelphia, from March 1 to May 14.

Two works are so sensitive they are displayed under a curtain to avoid lights that could fade them: 1873's "John Biglin in a Single Scull" by Eakins and "The Sisters" by Edwin Austin Abbey, created in 1882.