The artwork, titled “The Japanese Book,” was created by the artist William Merritt Chase around the year 1900. It is an oil painting on canvas, exemplifying the styles of Impressionism and Japonism. The portrait, measuring 182.88 by 93.98 centimeters, is currently housed in a private collection.
The artwork depicts a figure dressed in traditional Japanese attire, holding an illustrated book that extends downwards, creating a visual linkage between the subject and the viewer. The dark background contrasts with the elaborate details of the kimono and the vibrant images within the book, emphasizing the cultural immersion and the aesthetic appreciation of Japanese art. The composition and lighting reflect Chase’s mastery in capturing delicate expressions and textures, typical of the blending influences of Impressionism and Japonism during that era.
