Artwork
Afternoon Tea
Afternoon Tea is an unspecified painting by the Post-Impressionist artist Jean-François Raffaëlli. It dates from 1890 and is held in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago.
About this work
Overview
Afternoon Tea, painted by Jean-François Raffaëlli in 1890, is a realist depiction of a serene domestic moment, now part of the Art Institute of Chicago's collection.
Subject & Meaning
A window in the background, with a cat and potted plants on the sill, subtly expands the scene without distracting from the couple's calm companionship.
The painting portrays an elderly couple engaged in a quiet tea ritual. The woman, dressed in a dark dress and white bonnet, sits to the right, while the man, in a brown coat and black hat, occupies the left. A simply set table with a white teapot, cup, and saucer underscores their intimate, shared moment. A window in the background, with a cat and potted plants on the sill, subtly expands the scene without distracting from the couple's calm companionship.
Technique & Style
Raffaëlli employed muted colors and soft brushstrokes to evoke warmth and intimacy. The composition utilizes chiaroscuro, contrasting light and dark to enhance the emotional depth of the everyday scene, drawing the viewer's focus to the couple's gentle interaction.
History & Provenance
Created in 1890 during the post-Impressionist period, Afternoon Tea reflects Raffaëlli's affinity for detailing modern urban life with social acuity. The work is currently housed at the Art Institute of Chicago.
Context
While associated with Impressionist circles, Raffaëlli's realist approach in Afternoon Tea focuses on the mundane beauty of domestic life, contrasting with the more public, dynamic scenes often characteristic of Impressionist works.
Legacy
Afternoon Tea stands as a testament to Raffaëlli's ability to find and convey profound quietude in everyday life, contributing to the broader realist tradition of highlighting the beauty in ordinary human moments.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
Jean-François Raffaëlli (April 20, 1850 – February 11, 1924) was a French realist painter, sculptor, and printmaker who exhibited with the Impressionists. He was also active as an actor and writer.
