The artwork, titled “By the Thames at Richmond. A Declaration of Love,” created by the artist James Tissot between 1878 and 1879, is an oil on panel piece belonging to the Impressionism art movement. With dimensions of 19.6 x 30 cm, this genre painting captures an intimate and vivid portrayal of a moment by the Thames River at Richmond.
The artwork exudes a serene yet tender atmosphere, rendered through the use of soft, diffused light that is characteristic of the Impressionist style. A woman, elegantly dressed in dark attire with floral accents, stands beside a young girl, perhaps her daughter, dressed in a pink outfit with a black hat adorned with a red ribbon. Both figures are situated beside a seated man, who seems engrossed in reading a document, which adds an element of narrative intrigue to the scene. The background reveals a picturesque view of the Thames and a bridge, enveloped by lush trees, contributing to the tranquil setting. The presence of an open parasol behind the woman suggests a leisurely stroll or a casual outing, capturing a fleeting yet intimate moment by the river. The artist’s meticulous attention to detail and use of color wonderfully encapsulates the delicate emotions and tranquil beauty of the scene.
