The artwork titled “Retrospection,” created by Thomas Eakins around 1880, is a watercolor on paper piece that exemplifies the Realism art movement. Classified as a sketch and study, it is housed in the Philadelphia Museum of Art, located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.
The artwork captures the delicate and intimate scene of a woman seated on a wooden chair. The artist employs soft, muted tones to render the subject and the surrounding space. The figure is depicted in a contemplative pose, leaning slightly forward with her head slightly bowed, suggesting an introspective and calm moment. The background is rendered with broad, loose brushstrokes, creating a textured and somewhat abstract backdrop that contrasts with the delicate detailing of the figure. The subdued color palette and the subtle play of light and shadow enhance the reflective mood of the piece.
