Park Bench (aka An Idle Hour in the Park - Central Park) 1890

"Park Bench (aka An Idle Hour in the Park - Central Park)" is an 1890 oil painting by American artist William Merritt Chase (1849–1916). The painting depicts a lone woman sitting on a wooden bench in Central Park, New York City. The scene is bathed in dappled sunlight, highlighting the rich textures of the park and the woman's clothing. Chase's signature plein air style, characterized by loose brushstrokes and vibrant colors, captures the fleeting beauty of a summer afternoon in the park. This artwork is a testament to the artist's masterful ability to depict the everyday life and the natural world with exquisite detail and a sense of tranquility.