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 www.fae.llc