This work was presumably a demonstration piece, executed by Chase in roughly an hour's time to illustrate the technique of "alla prima" painting. Ron Pisano writes, "Chase's demonstration pieces are his most spontaneous works; and when successful (as in this work), they have a freshness, boldness and sureness...unrivaled by any of his contemporaries."

William Merritt Chase (1849-1916)

Young Girl

signed 'Chase' (upper left)

oil on canvas

30 x 25 in. (76.2 x 63.5 cm.)

Sold $ 160,000 in 2002

Man with Bandana

signed 'Wm M Chase' (upper left)

oil on panel

10 x 8 in. (25.4 x 20.3 cm.)

Painted circa 1872-78.

Sold $ 84,000 in 2005

A Gypsy Swell

signed Wm. M. Chase. (lower left); titled and inscribed (on the reverse)

oil on canvas

20 by 16 in.

50.8 by 40.6 cm.

Executed in Madrid in 1905.

Sold $ 63,000 in 2023

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