Meditation c. 1900 - 1910

Editor: This is John George Brown's "Meditation," probably painted sometime between 1900 and 1910. It's an oil painting depicting a woman indoors. The figure is what stands out for me. She seems completely lost in thought. What's your take on this? Curator: Lost in thought, yes, perhaps even dreaming a little. Notice how Brown uses the surrounding domestic objects, these tangible, earthly things, to frame her reverie. The shelf, stocked with jars and pitchers, even a can of applesauce! It suggests she’s present, anchored, yet her gaze floats just beyond. It reminds me, oddly, of Vermeer, that capturing of a quiet domestic moment infused with this incredible psychological depth. What do you suppose she's thinking about? Editor: Maybe about what to make for dinner, or some local gossip. Is it really fair to connect it to Vermeer, considering he idealized so meticulously? Curator: Perhaps not fair, yet artistic souls recognize a spark across centuries, wouldn’t you say? This isn't as polished as Vermeer. Brown, with a touch more ruggedness, gives us access to her humanity more immediately. The open space of the interior with simple items creates a sense of spaciousness in her life as much as on the painting, and perhaps points toward options? And, of course, what else is there to do on a Thursday afternoon. *laughing* Editor: *laughing* A fair point. I guess seeing it as a quiet observation rather than some grand statement shifts my perspective. It feels much more accessible now. Curator: Exactly! The everyday, seen with empathetic eyes. We might all have a bit of “Meditation” in us, if we let ourselves get caught doing nothing at all. Editor: True. It’s strangely comforting to see her pause, knowing even back then life wasn't all hustle. Thanks, that was insightful.