The artwork entitled “Contemplation,” created by the esteemed artist William Merritt Chase in 1889, is a notable piece executed in pastel. This work is associated with the Impressionism movement and is classified as a portrait. It measures 40.64 x 30.48 cm and is housed in the Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art located in Saint Joseph, Missouri, United States.
In this portrait, the subject appears deep in thought, her pose and expression exuding a sense of introspection. She is adorned in a dark, elegant attire that contrasts subtly with the muted background, allowing the viewer’s focus to rest on her contemplative gaze. The striking hat, adorned with vibrant feathers, adds a touch of brightness to the composition, further enhancing the juxtaposition of colors and textures. The artist’s adept use of pastel brings a soft yet vivid quality to the overall piece, typical of the Impressionist approach, lending an air of both sophistication and quiet reflection.
