Woman With Green Parasol Frederick Frary Fursman (1874-1943)

The composition presents a woman seated on a folding chair amidst a verdant expanse, likely a riverside meadow. She holds a dark parasol, its form partially obscuring her face and upper body. The light catches the edges of the parasol, creating highlights that contrast with the surrounding shadows. Her attire consists of a white blouse and skirt, accented by a blue collar and cuffs; a delicate lace shawl drapes over her shoulders. A small bouquet of flowers is clutched in her hand.
The background reveals a body of water reflecting the sky and distant structures – likely a bridge or building – suggesting an urban setting adjacent to nature. Further along the shoreline, two figures, seemingly children, are engaged in play near the waters edge; one appears to be fishing.
The artist’s brushwork is loose and impressionistic, prioritizing capturing the effects of light and atmosphere over precise detail. The color palette leans heavily on greens and blues, with touches of pink and yellow illuminating certain areas. This contributes to a sense of tranquility and warmth.
Beyond the straightforward depiction of a leisure scene, several subtexts emerge. The woman’s posture – relaxed yet slightly melancholic – hints at an interiority that transcends her immediate surroundings. Her gaze is directed beyond the viewer, suggesting contemplation or perhaps a longing for something unseen. The presence of the children playing in the distance introduces a sense of innocence and carefree joy, which contrasts with the womans more subdued demeanor.
The parasol itself functions as both a practical shield from the sun and a symbolic barrier – a visual representation of her separation from the activity unfolding around her. It creates a partial veil, obscuring aspects of her identity and adding to the overall air of quiet introspection. The choice of clothing, particularly the lace shawl, suggests a certain social standing or adherence to conventional notions of femininity.
Ultimately, the painting evokes a feeling of fleeting moments – a snapshot of a woman pausing amidst the rhythms of daily life, caught between observation and reflection.