The Charwoman c. 1906

"The Charwoman" is a c. 1906 etching by British artist Augustus John, known for his expressive and often melancholic portraits. The piece depicts a woman in a simple dress, standing in a seemingly rural setting. The figure's posture, with her head slightly bowed and one hand extended, conveys a sense of weariness and resignation, typical of John's portrayal of working-class subjects. The use of loose, gestural lines emphasizes the subject's physicality and the texture of her clothing, characteristic of John's artistic style. This etching offers a glimpse into the life of a working-class woman, underscoring John's interest in social realism and capturing the dignity of everyday life.