Bessie Potter c. 1895

William Merritt Chase made this painting of Bessie Potter using oil on canvas. Chase was known for his energetic brushwork, and here you can see how the strokes become almost sculptural, especially in the dark fabric of Potter's dress. This adds to the feeling that we are seeing more than just a likeness. Chase's process gives us a sense of the sitter's personality, as well. The tools and techniques he uses are rooted in a long tradition of European painting, yet he finds a way to make the image feel immediate, almost modern. The dark ground of the painting emphasizes the bright, almost luminescent face. This contrast creates a sense of depth, giving the portrait a tangible presence. The painting's material qualities, the way the paint sits on the canvas, and the artist's evident hand are all important aspects of experiencing the work, as much as what it depicts.