“The End of the Story,” created by artist Albert Joseph Moore in 1877 in the United Kingdom, is an oil on canvas work belonging to the Academicism movement. Characterized as a portrait, the artwork exemplifies the formal qualities and refined technique associated with this period of art.
The artwork portrays a solitary female figure standing in a contemplative pose. Adorned in a classical gown, the figure’s attire is rendered in a rich palette of greens and whites, with the flowing drapery accentuating her form. The use of light and shadow imparts a three-dimensional quality to the fabric, emphasizing both its texture and translucency. The woman’s gaze is directed away from the viewer, suggesting introspection or melancholy.
In the background, an ornately patterned wallpaper embellished with floral designs sets a contrast to the simplicity and solidity of the figure’s clothing. The detailed rendering of the wallpaper showcases the artist’s meticulous attention to the nuances of pattern and color. Beneath the figure’s feet, a rug with complementary colors to her attire further roots her within the elaborately decorated interior space.
The woman cradles a book in her left arm, while her right hand gently holds onto a page, perhaps indicating the conclusion of a narrative or the closing of a chapter. This narrative element, along with her pensive expression and the demure elegance of her pose, infuses the artwork with a sense of quietude and reflection.
Overall, “The End of the Story” is a compelling example of Academicism, capturing the beauty and grace of its subject through precise technique and a harmonious color scheme.
