The Fencing Lesson [recto]

Richard Caton Woodville

National Gallery of Art

Three figures, a man, a woman, and a child, are depicted in a domestic setting. The man is seated on a carved wooden chair to the right center, facing slightly to the left. He has a mustache and short hair and is dressed in period clothing with a jacket and trousers. His hand rests on a cane or stick. Opposite him, a woman sits with her back to the viewer, wearing a long dress and a shawl, and her hair is tied up in a bun. Beside her is an infant or young child facing slightly toward the viewer, seated on another chair. The child standing on the floor wears a short coat, pants, and shoes, and appears to play while handing something to the seated man. A small, round table with a tablecloth and a tall glass or vase stands between the man and woman. The background shows an intricately sketched interior with visible arches and wooden beams, and light appears to filter through, casting shadows that define the room's ambiance.