A female artist fights for success in a world dominated by men and expectations of conventional sexuality...

Claire Charles, a member of 1930s New York high society, has been trained in painting in preparation for marriage, but shocks everyone by pursuing art as a career and her own inclinations. In Paris, fifteen years later, she collides with Leah, a mysterious artist who has been secretly painting for her husband. When Kay Charles, Claire's 16-year year old niece, reluctantly models for a portrait, the lives of the three women become intertwined. Claire's voice alternates with James, a handsome art dealer, and Kay, who claims a special legacy. From Manhattan to Paris, galleries to artist colonies, from the 1930's to the 1970's, THE LOOKING GLASS is a story about women, art, and memory.