Reverie 1932 30.7x25.6cm Charles Frederick Goldie (1870-1947)

The composition presents a close-up portrait of a woman, her gaze directed downwards and slightly off-center. The artist has chosen a square format, intensifying the focus on the subjects face and upper torso. A warm, golden hue dominates the background, creating an enveloping atmosphere that seems to isolate the figure within its own contemplative space.
The woman’s skin tone is rendered in rich browns and ochres, subtly modulated with hints of pink and purple to suggest depth and volume. Her features are finely sculpted; a prominent brow ridge, a broad nose, and full lips contribute to an impression of strength and dignity. A single red flower is placed within her dark, voluminous hair, providing a striking contrast in color and form against the surrounding mass. The texture of the hair itself appears meticulously rendered, with individual strands suggested through delicate brushwork.
Around her neck hangs a carved pendant, its green coloration standing out distinctly from the warm tones of the skin and background. The intricate details of the carving suggest an object of cultural or spiritual significance. The garment she wears is depicted with vertical lines that create a sense of texture and movement, though the specific style remains ambiguous.
The overall effect is one of quiet introspection. The downward gaze and muted expression convey a feeling of melancholy or perhaps deep thought. The artist’s choice to depict her in this manner suggests an exploration of identity, heritage, or inner life. The backgrounds golden tone could be interpreted as representing warmth, memory, or even a spiritual realm. The presence of the flower introduces a note of vibrancy and beauty amidst the prevailing mood of contemplation. Inscriptions are visible in the upper right corner, adding another layer of complexity to the work’s narrative potential – perhaps indicating provenance or personal significance known only to the artist.