the artists daughter poppet c1927 8 John Augustus

The painting presents a young woman in profile, her gaze directed upwards and slightly away from the viewer. She is positioned against a vibrant, predominantly orange background that lacks distinct detail, serving primarily as a backdrop for the figure. The artist employed a loose, expressive brushstroke throughout, contributing to an overall sense of immediacy and emotional intensity.
The subject’s hair is cropped short, styled in a fashionable bob characteristic of the late 1920s. Her skin tone appears pale, contrasted by subtle blush on her cheeks and lips. She wears what seems to be a light-colored blouse or dress with delicate detailing around the neckline; these details are rendered with a softer touch than the rest of the composition, creating a textural contrast.
The color palette is dominated by warm tones – the fiery orange background juxtaposed against the muted pinks and creams of the figure’s skin and clothing. This limited range contributes to a feeling of intimacy and perhaps even melancholy. The lack of sharp outlines and the blurred edges suggest an emphasis on capturing a fleeting moment or impression rather than precise representation.
Subtly, there is a sense of introspection conveyed through the womans posture and gaze. Her upward glance suggests contemplation or longing, while her averted eyes imply a degree of reserve or perhaps even vulnerability. The background’s intensity could be interpreted as representing an external pressure or emotional weight that she seems to be navigating.
The signature in the lower right corner is rendered with a similar expressive style, integrating it seamlessly into the overall aesthetic. It reinforces the impression of a personal and intimate portrayal, hinting at a close relationship between the artist and the subject.