The New Perfume 1914

John William Godward made this painting, The New Perfume, with oil on canvas. The careful rendering of this painting is just exquisite. Look at how the light falls on the figure, softly illuminating the contours of her skin and the delicate folds of her gown. I wonder what it was like for Godward to stand before the canvas, patiently building up layer upon layer of paint to achieve such a lifelike effect. The woman’s gesture as she holds the vial is so poised and elegant. What perfume might she be testing? What thoughts run through her mind as she anticipates its scent? The marble surfaces reflect the light, enhancing the scene's luxurious feel. Godward's obsession with classical themes resonates with other painters of his time, yet there's something deeply personal in his vision. Painting is such an embodied form of expression, isn't it? It embraces ambiguity and invites multiple interpretations.