The artwork titled “Portrait of Mrs. William Chase” was created by the artist William Merritt Chase in the year 1900. This impressionist portrait was crafted using pastel as a medium, and it measures 50.8 by 40.64 centimeters. As a genre, the piece falls into the category of portraiture and, as of the provided information, is held within a private collection.
The artwork showcases a half-length portrait of Mrs. William Chase, revealing a composed and dignified subject. The brushwork is characteristic of the Impressionism movement, where quick, soft strokes convey the interplay of light and color, offering a sense of immediacy and realism while also imparting an atmospheric quality to the piece. The palette is subdued with a pronounced use of earth tones that complement highlights of aqua and pink, which lend vibrancy to the composition.
Mrs. Chase’s gaze is directed slightly away from the viewer, creating a contemplative or introspective mood. The use of pastel allows for delicate textural details in the depiction of her attire and accessories, which further emphasizes the ephemeral quality that is a hallmark of Impressionist works. Moreover, the blurred background ensures that the focus remains on the subject, highlighting her features and the fine execution of her representation. Despite the overall softness, the portrait displays a keen attention to detail, especially evident in her facial expression and the rendering of her delicate garments.
