A Girl reading a letter by Candlelight, with a Young Man peering over her shoulder 1762

"A Girl reading a letter by Candlelight, with a Young Man peering over her shoulder" is a 1762 painting by Joseph Wright of Derby. This dramatic and intimate scene, typical of Wright's "candlelight" paintings, depicts a young woman reading a letter by candlelight, with a man looking over her shoulder. The use of chiaroscuro, with a strong contrast between light and dark, creates a sense of mystery and intrigue, drawing attention to the characters' faces and the letter itself. This work exemplifies the "candlelight" genre, highlighting the dramatic effects of artificial light in the 18th century. The painting is a testament to Wright’s mastery of light and shadow and his ability to capture the emotions of his subjects.