The Artist's Mother (Elizabeth Balfour Nicolson, Mrs Jackson Walton)
1893
oil
From the collection of National Galleries Scotland
1893
oil
From the collection of National Galleries Scotland
This portrait features a woman in a dark dress with a white collar, seated and facing the viewer. Her hands are clasped together in her lap. The background is dark, with subtle shading that suggests a sense of depth. The woman's attire and hairstyle evoke a sense of formality and elegance, characteristic of the late 19th century. The artist's use of chiaroscuro, a technique that emphasizes contrasts between light and dark, adds depth and dimension to the portrait. The painting's attention to detail and masterful use of light and shadow make it a compelling work. For more information on the artist's use of chiaroscuro, look up the technique.
