Ruth 1885

Eastman Johnson's 1885 painting, *Ruth*, depicts a young woman seated in a dimly lit interior, her gaze directed away from the viewer. The muted color palette and loose brushstrokes contribute to a sense of melancholy, while the woman's posture suggests a state of contemplation or solitude. The inclusion of a wood-burning stove in the background further emphasizes the domestic setting. Johnson was known for his genre paintings depicting everyday life, particularly among the working class, and this painting is a poignant example of his artistic vision. The painting provides a glimpse into the realities of domestic life and the emotional states of ordinary individuals during the 19th century.