“Hide and Seek” is an oil on canvas artwork by William Merritt Chase, created in 1888, reflecting the Impressionism movement of the time. Measuring 91.44 cm in height and 67.31 cm in width, this genre painting resides at the Phillips Collection in Washington, DC, US. The artwork captures the playful essence of childhood through its depiction of the game from which it takes its name.
The artwork presents a minimal yet evocative scene of domestic life. The observer’s view is from a dark interior space, looking towards a dimly lit room where a young girl appears to be in motion, her figure caught in a moment of searching or moving. She is adorned in a white garment that contrasts sharply with the surrounding darkness, making her the primary focal point. To the left, another child sits partially obscured, close to the picture plane and primarily out of the spectator’s view, with only the back of her head and a hint of a blue sash visible. This placement suggests she may be hiding or awaiting her turn to join the game. The sparse use of furniture, with just a single chair rendered in quick brushstrokes on the left side, contributes to the sense of openness and uncluttered space.
The composition is suffused with a sense of anticipation, with the focal point being the area of light that the girl moves towards, which suggests the possibility of discovery. Chase’s work is notable for its textured brushwork and nuanced interplay of light and shadow. The subdued color palette and the treatment of forms with an apparent spontaneity align this piece with the hallmarks of the Impressionist approach. Through “Hide and Seek,” Chase explores themes of youth and play with a depth that belies the simplicity of its scene, inviting contemplation on the transient moments of childhood.
