SJ-JWS23 Jessie Willcox Smith

The drawing presents a solitary figure suspended within a body of water. The composition is dominated by shades of green and gold, creating a luminous, almost ethereal atmosphere. A dark mass occupies the upper left quadrant, likely representing foliage or a bank, contrasting with the shimmering surface of the water that fills most of the frame.
The central subject is a child, depicted reclining horizontally on the water’s surface. The figure appears to be nude and possesses delicate features; their expression seems one of quiet contemplation rather than distress. Concentric ripples emanate outwards from the childs position, suggesting gentle movement and an inherent connection with the surrounding environment.
The artist employed a soft rendering style, blurring details and emphasizing the overall mood of tranquility. The light source appears to be diffused, casting a warm glow across the scene and contributing to its dreamlike quality. There is a sense of isolation, yet also one of peaceful integration within nature.
Subtly, the work hints at themes of innocence, vulnerability, and perhaps even rebirth or transformation – the child seemingly cradled by the water itself. The absence of any other figures reinforces this feeling of solitude and introspection. The decorative border framing the image further emphasizes its status as a carefully constructed, idealized vision.