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Story
Three women dressed in flowing classical gowns move among roses in yellow, pink, and red, their forms rendered in soft, muted tones that soften the whole scene. The painting, titled The Perfume of Roses, was created in 1902 in oil and is held at the Smithsonian American Art Museum, having entered the collection as a gift from William T. Evans. The artist, Charles Courtney Curran (1861–1942), was an American painter associated with Impressionism, also known for Lady with a Bouquet (Snowballs). One detail worth noticing is how the muted palette lets the colors of the roses stand out gently against the pale drapery of the women's gowns, drawing the eye through the garden setting without any harsh contrast disturbing the quiet mood of the composition.
Where it works
Pastel artwork suited to living rooms and dining rooms, and to hotel guest rooms, in a vertical format.
Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of William T. Evans, 1909.7.15