RSA Scottish Art
Elspeth
 | Artist: Ian Fleming |
| Title: Elspeth | |
| Year: 1953 | |
| Medium: oil on canvas | |
| Dimensions: | |
| Suggested topic: | |
| Source: RSA | |
| View full screen image of this work | |
| Open print version of this work | |
| © the Fleming family | |
| Description: Ian Fleming developed a fine reputation as an etcher and engraver, but also painted in both oils and watercolours throughout his career.In this portrait of his daughter, Elspeth, Ian Fleming has chosen a three-quarter length view of her. He has reduced the space around her to focus attention on the girl.The painting has been executed in a very low-key tonal range, with most of the image in subdued light. Only the highlights on the face and the pale blouse lift the tone of the image.The palette chosen is dark, cool and earthy, with the exception of the girl's face. It is painted in warm ochre and rich flesh tones, and is the true focal point of the image. The majority of the brush strokes are directed vertically, which enhances the sense of a thin, elongated figure. How do you imagine this image might communicate if the girl was standing in front of a stark white background?The little girl adopts a stiff pose, with her back straight and her hands neatly folded in front of her. She seems a little intimidated before her father's gaze. She wears quite formal clothes, probably her school uniform. The simplicity of this painting and the absence of decorative elements, apart from the large hair ribbons, ensures that our attention is directed to the face of the sitter. The girl has very dark eyes, and she looks almost a little frightened. What kind of person do you think she is? | |
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