“The Siesta,” created by John William Godward in 1895, is a Neoclassical oil painting on canvas with dimensions of 30.5 x 35 cm. It falls under the portraiture genre and resides in a private collection.
In the artwork, a young woman is depicted in profile, facing left. She is seated and appears to be in a state of serene repose, embodying the moment of a siesta, or afternoon rest. Her attire is classical, with a soft, ruffled garment, and she is adorned with a headband, enhancing the Neoclassical theme. The background features a marble-like texture, a hallmark of Godward’s attention to classical antiquity, emphasizing the tranquil and timeless nature of the scene. The muted color palette and delicate treatment of textures exude a sense of calm and introspection.
