Woman in Silk Kimono

By Richard A. Chase

Oil on Canvas • 40” x 30”

This striking portrait, Woman in Silk Kimono, showcases Richard A. Chase’s gift for refined composition and sensitive character study. The sitter is depicted in a luminous blue kimono, her expression poised yet contemplative, set against a backdrop that blends decorative pattern with subtle painterly textures. The artist’s handling of fabric and skin tone demonstrates a masterful balance of realism and impressionistic touch, giving the work both elegance and vitality.

About the Artist

Richard A. Chase (active early–mid 20th century) was an accomplished American painter known for his portraits and figure studies. He trained in classical techniques yet embraced modern influences, often incorporating decorative motifs and atmospheric backgrounds into his work. Chase’s paintings reveal a deep interest in both the individuality of his sitters and the broader aesthetic qualities of composition, color harmony, and design. His portraits were admired for their ability to capture not only likeness but also character, placing him within the lineage of American artists bridging academic training with modern sensibilities.

Chase exhibited in various venues during his career and was particularly noted for portraits of women, which often combined elegance of dress with psychological depth. Works like Woman in Silk Kimono reflect the fascination of early 20th-century American artists with Asian textiles and motifs, echoing the broader cultural exchange of the period.

This piece remains a fine example of Richard A. Chase’s artistry — a portrait that resonates with timeless grace while also speaking to the stylistic currents of its era.