Jacob Eichholtz, American, 1776-1842 – Dorothea Philadelphia Museum of Art

The composition presents a young woman seated upon a rocky outcrop beside what appears to be a body of water, likely a stream or pond. The setting is heavily wooded, with dense foliage and glimpses of distant mountains visible through the trees. A palpable sense of seclusion pervades the scene.
Here we see the figure dressed in an unusual combination of garments: a red jacket over a pale-colored tunic or dress, paired with what appear to be golden trousers. Her hair, a vibrant auburn, cascades down her shoulders and back, partially obscuring one side of her face. She gazes directly at the viewer, her expression a complex blend of melancholy and quiet defiance. At her feet lie discarded men’s boots and a small object, possibly a musical instrument or a writing tool, wrapped in cloth.
The lighting is dramatic; a strong light source illuminates the womans face and upper body, while leaving much of the surrounding foliage in shadow. This contrast emphasizes her isolation within the natural environment. The artist has employed a muted palette dominated by greens, browns, and ochres, with the red jacket providing a striking focal point.
Subtexts inherent in this work suggest themes of displacement or exile. The unusual attire hints at a disruption of societal norms or a departure from conventional roles. The discarded boots imply a journey undertaken, perhaps one that has been abruptly halted. The woman’s direct gaze and somber expression convey a sense of introspection and resilience in the face of adversity. It is possible to interpret her presence as symbolic of an individual caught between worlds – nature and civilization, tradition and rebellion. The placement within a wild landscape suggests a rejection of societal constraints or a search for solace outside established structures.