Artwork

The Very Picture of Idleness

The Very Picture of Idleness, by Richard Rothwell, oil, 1842
The Very Picture of Idleness, by Richard Rothwell, oil, 1842

The Very Picture of Idleness is an oil painting by the Biedermeier artist Richard Rothwell. It dates from 1842 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

The Very Picture of Idleness is an oil painting created by Richard Rothwell in 1842, currently held at the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Subject & Meaning

The painting portrays a serene woman in a red dress with a white shawl, adorned with a necklace, sitting against a dark background with her hands clasped in her lap, conveying a sense of leisure and relaxation.

Technique & Style

The contrast between the dark background and the woman's attire draws attention to her figure, showcasing Rothwell's use of chiaroscuro to emphasize the subject.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Richard Rothwell

Artist

Richard Rothwell

Richard Rothwell (1800–1868) was an artist, born in Athlone.