What does the "Bell Collection" represent in the novel, The House Girl?

The Bell Collection symbolizes controversy, talent, and a sympathetic view of slavery. Most people believe that Lu Anne Bell was the talented artist and the collection became famous because the artist obviously felt affection and empathy for the slaves in the paintings. Porter Scales raised the question of whether Lu Anne Bell was the sole artist, which created controversy. Some people felt that Josephine should be given credit for her work while others felt they were losing something if the collection proved to be the work of two different artists.