A Modern Magdalen by William Merritt Chase. A nude woman sits on a green floral-patterned settee, her head resting on her arms in a contemplative or weary pose.

A Modern Magdalen

William Merritt Chase

1888 · Oil Paint, Canvas

An elegant and moody late 19th-century figure study by William Merritt Chase, featuring luminous skin tones against patterned textiles.

$243

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Where it works

A balanced piece with a quiet mood with warm, lived-in color — adds structure to a more polished room.

Often works in
Study · Bedroom · Living Room
Placement
Works well as a centered vertical note
Walls
Reads strongest when the wall gives it contrast
Color notes
Warm beige, Soft sage, Olive green

About the piece

Painted around 1888, this masterwork by American Impressionist William Merritt Chase captures a quiet, intimate moment. The title alludes to the biblical Mary Magdalene, yet the 'modern' treatment emphasizes the play of light on form and the sophisticated interplay of floral textures and soft flesh tones.

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