The Farewell Note Alfred Stevens (1823-1906)

Here we observe a woman standing in what appears to be a doorway or threshold, framed by a dark architectural structure. She is positioned centrally within the composition, her figure dominating the visual space. The artist depicted her in a long, flowing gown of pale blue, its fabric seemingly catching and diffusing the light that illuminates her from behind. Her posture suggests a moment of quiet contemplation; one hand rests gently on her stomach, while the other holds a folded piece of material – perhaps a letter or handkerchief – close to her chest.
The background is rendered in a hazy, atmospheric style. A cityscape unfolds beyond the doorway, bathed in a warm, golden light that contrasts sharply with the shadows enveloping the woman and the immediate surroundings. The buildings are indistinct, their forms softened by distance and atmosphere, creating a sense of depth and suggesting a world receding from her presence. To the right, a cluster of vibrant red flowers is visible, adding a touch of color and life to the otherwise muted palette. A small painting or framed artwork leans against the wall beside them, further enriching the scenes domesticity.
The subtexts within this work are layered and evocative. The woman’s pose and attire suggest an upper-class status, yet her expression is not one of triumph or joy. Instead, there is a palpable sense of melancholy and resignation. Her hand on her stomach hints at pregnancy, adding another dimension to the narrative – a potential departure, a future uncertain. The doorway itself functions as a powerful symbol of transition; she stands poised between two worlds, seemingly reluctant to fully commit to either.
The golden light illuminating the cityscape could be interpreted as representing hope or opportunity, yet it is inaccessible to her, separated by the dark frame of the doorway. This separation reinforces the feeling of isolation and impending loss that permeates the scene. The folded piece of material she holds – the farewell note – is a poignant detail, suggesting a deliberate act of parting, a communication left behind. Overall, the painting conveys a profound sense of quiet sorrow and unspoken farewells, leaving the viewer to ponder the circumstances surrounding this moment of departure.