Artwork

Girl in white

Girl in white, by Carlos Baca-Flor, oil, 1902
Girl in white, by Carlos Baca-Flor, oil, 1902

Girl in white is an oil painting by the Post-Impressionist artist Carlos Baca-Flor. It dates from 1902 and is held in the collection of the Lima Art Museum.

About this work

Overview

Carlos Baca‑Flor’s 1902 oil on canvas, titled *Girl in White*, presents a youthful figure seated on a chair. The composition centers on a young girl dressed in an elaborate white gown, her dark hair framing a direct gaze toward the viewer. A subdued background hue accentuates the luminous attire, creating a clear visual focus on the subject.

Subject & Meaning

The work depicts a girl in a flowing white dress with puffed sleeves and a full skirt, evoking notions of innocence and early adolescence. Her simple hairstyle, with a few loose strands, and the straightforward pose suggest a candid, intimate moment, inviting contemplation of youthful poise and the quiet confidence of the sitter.

Technique & Style

Executed in oil, the painting demonstrates Baca‑Flor’s careful handling of light and texture. The white fabric is rendered with subtle brushwork that captures the material’s softness, while the muted backdrop is painted in restrained tones, allowing the figure’s colors and details to emerge with clarity. The overall style reflects a realistic yet gently idealized approach.

History & Provenance

Created in 1902, *Girl in White* entered the collection of the Museo de Arte de Lima, where it remains on display. The painting’s acquisition by the museum underscores its relevance within the institution’s representation of early 20th‑century Peruvian art and Baca‑Flor’s oeuvre.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Carlos Baca-Flor

Artist

Carlos Baca-Flor

Carlos Baca-Flor (1869–1941) was an artist, born in Islay.

Lima Art Museum

Museum

Lima Art Museum

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Lima Art Museum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.