Competition time study 5 and a half days c1896 90.5x72cm Charles Frederick Goldie (1870-1947)

Here we observe a portrait of a young woman seated, rendered in a style characteristic of late nineteenth-century European realism. The composition is straightforward: she occupies nearly the entire frame, positioned centrally against a dark, indistinct background. This backdrop, executed with loose brushstrokes and muted greens and browns, serves to isolate and emphasize the figure.
The subject’s attire suggests a regional or folk costume. A voluminous white blouse, adorned with elaborate ruffles at the cuffs and neckline, contrasts sharply with a fitted red bodice cinched by a black belt. The skirt is a deep green, its folds rendered with considerable attention to texture and light. Small gold earrings and a delicate pearl necklace add subtle details that contribute to an overall impression of modest elegance. A dark ribbon or band secures her hair, which falls in loose waves around her face.
Her gaze is direct and unwavering, meeting the viewer’s eye with a certain intensity. The expression is complex; it isnt overtly joyful nor sorrowful, but rather conveys a sense of quiet determination and perhaps even a touch of melancholy. There is an absence of sentimentality in her features, which lends a psychological depth to the portrayal.
The artist employed a technique that prioritizes capturing the essence of the subject over precise detail. Brushwork is visible throughout, particularly in the rendering of the background and the folds of the clothing. The lighting appears naturalistic, highlighting the planes of her face and emphasizing the texture of her garments. This approach contributes to an atmosphere of authenticity and immediacy.
Subtly, the painting seems to explore themes of identity and representation. The regional costume might signify a connection to tradition or heritage, while the direct gaze suggests a challenge to conventional portrayals of women in art. There is a sense that this is not merely a decorative portrait but rather an attempt to capture something essential about the subjects character – a quiet strength and resilience conveyed through her posture and expression. The muted palette and somber background contribute to a mood of introspection, inviting contemplation on the complexities of identity and social context.