A descendent of Vermeer or a forerunner of Hopper? Hammershi, a Danish painter who made his reputation in the 1880s, is without doubt neither. The minimalist intimisme of his interiors & the disturbing atmosphere that emanates from his apparently rigorous approach are sufficient proof of that. Hammershi most probably invented the back portrait, as opposed to the existing full-face or side portraits. This seated womanwe cannot tell whether she is a maid or a member of the bourgeoisie, or even guess what she is doingis intriguing because of her displyed indifference to the spectator. The silent figure has been brushed in a refined range of greys & browns, showing the artist's deep sensitivity to indoor atmospheres. The composition is a series of right angles: the lines of the chair, the skirting board & the sideboard divide this eulogy of absence into squares with a sort of Protestant rigour. But it would be an error to jump to the conclusion that the painting is an allegory of solitude or human tragedy. Because the real subject is perhaps the nape of the neck, the most indecent part of the body to oriental minds. Just as the few unruly wisps of hair, the opening of the blouse which gives a glimpse of white skin, in counterpoint to the flower-shaped bowl laid on the sideboard, are radical antidotes to the temptation of a purely puritanical interpretation. Ida Playing the Piano, Rest, Repose makes an excellent gift for anyone passionate about: Hammershoi Print, Michael Palin, Danish art... ???? Important For this particular print I recommend you select a size no smaller than 30x40cm (12x16 Inches). Smaller print sizes will not yield optimal results. Fine details, as shown in the photographs on this page, will only be legible at 30x40cm (12x16 Inches) or larger. This is a museum quality fine art print; the highest quality possible. Note that should you select a framed print it will be delivered with a perspex glaze. ???? More Information It is vital you take a moment to read my Shop FAQ which is displayed at the bottom of this page. Read this essential section before purchasing this handmade, custom-made print. ???? 15% Off EtsyCoupon Sign up for my newsletter & receive your discount coupon instantly. Visit: world-of-art-prints.com/?coupon=aap_027 Hvile - Aka Repos Or Rest By Hammershi - Gicle Fine Art Archival Pigment Print; Poster, Hammershoi Danish Reproduction Print