“By Candlelight (Mrs. Jedidiah Morse)” is an oil on canvas portrait created by the artist Samuel Morse in 1820. This artwork, characteristic of the Romanticism movement, is housed in the Yale University Art Gallery in New Haven, Connecticut, U.S.
The artwork presents a tender and intimate portrayal of Mrs. Jedidiah Morse, captured in the gentle glow of candlelight. The composition is characterized by a serene and contemplative atmosphere, brought to life through the soft illumination that highlights her facial features and attire against a dark, somber background. Mrs. Morse is depicted engrossed in reading, with the candle’s soft flicker providing both literal and metaphorical light, suggesting introspection and enlightenment. The artist’s meticulous attention to detail is evident in the delicate textures of the lace bonnet and the nuanced play of light and shadow on her face. This painting exemplifies the Romanticism art movement’s emphasis on emotion, individual experience, and the profound beauty found in everyday moments.
