The Japanese Doll 1890

William Merritt Chase’s 1890 oil painting "The Japanese Doll" is a still life portraying a collection of Japanese dolls. The central doll, positioned on a large ceramic jar, is the focus of the artwork. The doll's face, painted in a delicate manner, is the most prominent feature. The painting's subdued color palette of dark brown, gold and red create a sense of intimacy and draw attention to the intricate details of the dolls. Chase's painting exemplifies his mastery of light and shadow, adding depth and dimension to the composition. "The Japanese Doll" is a testament to Chase's keen interest in Japanese art and culture, which influenced his work during his lifetime.