Artwork

Who Is It?

Who Is It?, by Seymour Joseph Guy, oil, 1863
Who Is It?, by Seymour Joseph Guy, oil, 1863

Who Is It? is an oil painting by the Realist artist Seymour Joseph Guy. It dates from 1863 and is held in the collection of the Brooklyn Museum.

About this work

Overview

'Who Is It?' is an oil painting created by Seymour Joseph Guy in 1863, now held at the Brooklyn Museum.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a young girl playfully covering a boy's eyes as he sits on a stool reading a book, suggesting a lighthearted moment between the two figures.

Technique & Style

The artist's use of chiaroscuro is notable, with the scene lit from the left side, creating a contrast between light and dark areas.

Context

The formal attire of the children and the domestic setting imply a middle-class household, with the boy's book indicating an emphasis on education or leisure reading.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Seymour Joseph Guy

Artist

Seymour Joseph Guy

Seymour Joseph Guy (1824–1910) was an artist, born in London.

Brooklyn Museum

Museum

Brooklyn Museum

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