19th C. Oil Painting (theme: human emotions)

Palpitation by Charles West Cope, 1844. He uses fine lines and complex shapes, focusing on the girl's expression and posture, to paint a tale of fear.

Describe:

Cope used fine, sweeping, dynamic lines to paint a scene of a girl looking worriedly out the door at a man and a woman making some kind of deal. The shapes used are complex, geometric, and compound.

Analyze:

Emphasis: The emphasis in this painting is on the girl, especially her facial expression, which communicates her fear.
Proportion: There is 10% negative space and 90% positive space.
Movement: This painting is dynamic. The values, shading, color of the yellow sash and red tablecloth, and the door direct your eyes to the worried girl.
Balance: This painting is symmetrical.
Repition: The white rectangles on the floor are repeated.
Unity: The various items scattered everywhere unite this piece, emphasizing the fear and distress the girl is feeling. The colors definitely add visual interest, as well as the intricacy of the girl's dress.

Interpret:

I think this painting is depicting a young woman who is very fearful, perhaps because her mother is selling her into slavery or of sending her away because they need money. This is communicated through her facial expression and the items on the floor, showing signs of distress.

Source: www.fineartamerica.com