Curiously ignored by scores of Art Historians, William Bouguereau was one of the 19th century’s best technicians, especially of the human form. His detailed study of classical painting and sculpture led to the creation of some of the art world’s most striking works. Contrary to his understated presence in art history, however, his representations of the human figure have been regarded by some as second only to Michelangelo, whilst his use of light has been seen as equal to the ingenuity of Caravaggio.

Bouguereau’s imagery often arrived at awe-inspiring levels, creating a world that only the imagination could govern. Indeed, as a young artist, he would study forms and detail by day, and upon nightfall, resort to the flights of fancy that would inform so many of his works.

In this painting, however, Bouguereau exhibits his finest talent – that of capturing the human form. The girl’s face, her skin, the folds of her garments and her delicate posture set against that rural backdrop creates a stunningly emotive composition. But even as a realist, Bouguereau’s paintings are almost ethereal in their nature. Whilst the backdrop is clearly the countryside of reality, it is also an enchanted landscape. And whilst this is a human figure, her nature is undoubtedly angelic.