About this objectThis painting was likely inspired by James McNeill Whistler’s (1834-1903) ‘Symphony in White, No. 2: The Little White Girl’ (1864). Whistler’s influence can be observed in the composition, subject matter and the use of colour tones to emphasise mood.
The three-quarter angle and blurred focus of the model’s reflection in the mirror obscures her facial features and the focus of her gaze. It is unclear whether the model is absorbed in her own reflection or whether she is returning the gaze of the artist and the viewer.
MakerSteer, Philip Wilson
Maker Rolepainter
Date Made1894
Period19th century
Medium and Materialsmedium: oil
support: canvas
Style and IconographyImpressionist
Techniqueoil on canvas
Measurementssupport height: 52 cm
support width: 39.3 cm
Credit LinePurchased from the artist's studio sale with the aid of the NACF and the Dr Stansfield Bequest, 1942
