Seventeenth Century Lady by William Merritt Chase

This magnificent pictorial creation by Chase William Merritt, bearing the title “Seventeenth Century Lady”, is elegantly part of the refined movement of classical portraiture of the late nineteenth century. Through this intimate staging, the artist succeeds in capturing a mysterious and deeply poetic atmosphere, evoking the quietness of the salons of yesteryear. The enigmatic posture of his female model invites the spectator to a silent contemplation.

A young red-haired woman is depicted from behind, dressed in a sumptuous evening gown of ivory satin with delicately silver reflections. Her puffy sleeves of light, translucent lace emphasize the graceful curve of her back and the delicacy of her bare shoulders. Her narrow waist is circled by an elegant dark green fabric sash that brings a striking contrast with the light material. She stands motionless before an inky black background, while to her right, a slit of golden light crosses the scene vertically. This subtle lighting caresses her milky skin and the fluid drape of her dress unfolding on the floor.

The painter demonstrates here his exceptional craftsmanship through an absolutely masterful execution in oil painting. The realistic rendering of materials, from the pearlescent silks to the fine texture of the skin, bears witness to an impressive rigor. This striking work reveals a remarkable artistic sensitivity and an innate sense of chiaroscuro.