“The Japanese Print,” painted by William Merritt Chase in 1888, is an oil on canvas artwork associated with the Impressionism and Japonism art movements. This genre painting, which measures 50.48 x 60.96 cm, is currently housed in a private collection. The piece illustrates Chase’s interest in Japonism, a trend among Western artists in the late 19th century who were influenced by Japanese art and aesthetics.
The artwork features a woman, comfortably seated and deeply engaged in examining a Japanese print. She is dressed in a kimono-style garment adorned with delicate, flowy patterns, further emphasizing the Japanese influence. The woman’s relaxed posture and the intimate setting create a tranquil atmosphere. The muted color palette, characterized by soft whites, blues, and earthy tones, highlights the refined elegance of both the subject and the print she holds. The background, which subtly showcases elements of Japanese design, further augments the contemplative mood and aesthetic harmony of the scene.
