The artwork, titled “Carmencita,” is by the artist William Merritt Chase, painted circa 1888 using oil on canvas. This piece belongs to the Realism art movement and is categorized within the portrait genre.
The artwork captures a woman engaging in a dynamic dance pose, suggestive of movement and grace. The subject is adorned in an elaborate, traditional Spanish dress, richly detailed with bold and intricate patterns of gold and black. Her spirited expression and poised demeanor convey a sense of lively elegance. The backdrop is minimalistic, a solid hue that serves to accentuate the vibrancy and vitality of the dancer. A bouquet of flowers rests at her feet, perhaps offerings from an appreciative audience, further highlighting the performer’s centrality and prominence within the composition. The artist’s adept use of light and shadow enhances the realism, bringing depth and dimension to the portrayal, making it a vivid and engaging portrait.