The Passing of Summer by Harry Willson Watrous
In Harry Willson Watrous's "The Passing of Summer" from 1912, a woman in profile sits in quiet contemplation, evoking a sense of calm and mystery.
Watrous, known for his stylized depictions of sophisticated women, often dressed his subjects in dark, elegant attire. Here, her transparent sleeve and the subtle details of her hat hint at a moment of leisure. A martini glass with olives sits before her on a round table, suggesting a pause in time.
Look closely at the background, where dragonflies in flight symbolize the ephemeral nature of the season. This work is a beautiful example of American Impressionism, capturing a fleeting moment with gentle light and shadow.
This painting is held in the collection of The Metropolitan Museum of Art. What do you imagine she is looking at, just beyond the frame?
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Transcript
She sits in quiet contemplation, watching something outside the frame. It is 1912, and this painter loved depicting sophisticated women. Her transparent sleeve suggests a light, passing moment. On her table, a martini glass with olives awaits her. Behind her, dragonflies dart, a symbol of fleeting summer. The artist, Harry Willson Watrous, often painted enigmatic figures.