“Shinnecock Interior Studio” is a genre painting executed in pastel by the renowned artist William Merritt Chase, circa 1892. This work, emblematic of the Impressionism art movement, measures 40.64 by 50.8 cm. The artwork presents an intimate interior scene, capturing what appears to be a slice of domestic life within the artist’s studio.
In the artwork, a figure, likely a young girl, is depicted in a relaxed and naturalistic pose, kneeling on what seems to be a wooden floor. She is dressed in a light-colored dress accentuated with a vibrant red sash around her waist. The girl is absorbed in the activity of examining a series of what appears to be paintings or illustrations spread out before her. The setting is tastefully furnished, yet the focal point remains on the interaction between the child and the artistic materials on the floor. The background includes paintings and chairs, suggesting the environment of an artist’s studio. The use of soft pastel tones and delicate brushwork enhances the tranquil and contemplative atmosphere of the scene, reflecting the Impressionist penchant for capturing the fleeting moments of everyday life.
