“Symphony in Flesh Colour and Pink: Portrait of Mrs. Frances Leyland,” created by James McNeill Whistler between 1871 and 1873, is an oil painting on canvas measuring 195.9 x 102.2 cm. The artwork falls within the genres of Impressionism and Realism, and it is a portrait.
The artwork portrays Mrs. Frances Leyland standing in an elegant and somewhat contemplative pose, turned slightly away from the viewer, with her hands clasped gently behind her back. Draped in a flowing, delicate dress of soft pink and flesh tones, her attire harmonizes seamlessly with the subtle background, emphasizing the refinement and grace of the subject. The background features a muted palette with hints of organic elements, such as blossoms, which add to the overall serene and sophisticated atmosphere of the portrait. Whistler’s meticulous brushwork and attention to detail underscore both the fashion and the gentle elegance of the era.
