The Sword
1898
oil
From the collection of Art Gallery of Ontario
1898
oil
From the collection of Art Gallery of Ontario
The painting features a woman seated on a red fabric, dressed in a black dress with a high collar and a gold sash. She holds a sword in her right hand, with the blade pointing downwards. The background is a plain grey wall. The woman's attire and the sword suggest a sense of strength and determination. The artist's use of chiaroscuro creates a dramatic effect, with the woman's face and hands illuminated against the darker background. This painting is reminiscent of the works of Alfred Agache, who was known for his portraits of strong women.
