Far away thoughts John William Godward (1861-1922)

The composition presents a solitary figure within a contained, circular frame. Here we observe a young woman seated on a cushioned bench, engaged in the act of knitting. Her posture is introspective; her gaze directed downwards, suggesting a state of deep contemplation or reverie. The clothing she wears – a draped garment of rich purple and ochre tones accented by a green sash – hints at an ancient Mediterranean setting, possibly Greek or Roman.
The background establishes a clear sense of place. A balustrade separates the figure from a vista of turquoise water and distant landforms under a bright sky. Lush foliage frames the scene, adding to the impression of a secluded, idyllic location. The light is soft and diffused, contributing to an atmosphere of tranquility and stillness.
A striking element within the painting is the presence of a leopard skin draped over the bench and partially covering the cushion upon which she sits. This detail introduces a layer of symbolic complexity. Leopard skins were often associated with luxury, power, and even divinity in ancient cultures; their inclusion here could signify an elevated status or connection to something beyond the mundane. The juxtaposition of this wild, primal element against the woman’s refined appearance and activity creates a subtle tension within the work.
The act of knitting itself is significant. It represents domesticity, creation, and perhaps even a form of meditative practice. However, given the womans detached expression and the surrounding environment, it seems less about practical necessity and more about an internal process – a weaving together not just of yarn, but also of thoughts and emotions.
The overall effect is one of quiet melancholy and longing. The figure appears lost in her own world, seemingly oblivious to the beauty that surrounds her. This sense of isolation, combined with the symbolic weight of the leopard skin and the timeless quality of the setting, suggests a deeper exploration of themes such as memory, imagination, and the human condition. The circular format reinforces this feeling of enclosure and introspection, drawing the viewer’s attention inward toward the womans private world.