Young Woman in Kimono

Young Woman in Kimono depicts a young woman wearing a kimono, reflecting early 20th-century American interpretations of Japanese aesthetics.

Young Woman in Kimono depicts a young woman wearing a kimono, reflecting early 20th-century American interpretations of Japanese aesthetics. The subject embodies ideals of femininity and cultural refinement, aligning with the era's fascination with Eastern art. Symbolic elements within the painting suggest a blend of Western and Eastern artistic sensibilities, though specific iconographic details remain sparse in available records. The work signifies Maurer's exploration of cross-cultural themes during his career.

The painting was created in 1901 by Alfred Maurer, an American modernist painter known for his tonal and stylistic innovations. It is housed in the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., following its acquisition in 2014 from the Corcoran Gallery of Art. The artwork measures 76.2 cm in height and 73.18 cm in width, executed in oil on canvas.

Its provenance traces back to Francis G. Newlands and his descendants before being gifted to the Corcoran Gallery of Art in 1950.

Alfred Maurer was born in 1868 and died in 1932, establishing his reputation through contributions to early American modernism. His works often incorporated elements of Japanese design, as seen in this painting's composition and attire. The National Gallery of Art holds the painting as part of its collection, ensuring its preservation and public accessibility. The piece remains a notable example of Maurer's engagement with international artistic influences.

The painting's subject and meaning reflect broader artistic trends of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, where Western artists reinterpreted Eastern motifs through a modernist lens. This work contributes to understanding Maurer's artistic trajectory and the cultural dialogues embedded in his practice.