Interrupted Reading Analysis

The painting, “Interrupted Reading” by Carot was not an easy topic to research.  An in depth description of this painting was rather hard to come across.  After researching I believe I have a better understanding of what Carot is trying to portray in the painting.  Jean- Baptiste- Camille Carot was a French painter who specialized in landscapes and paintings about nature.  Carot did not start painting portraits until later in his career.  One of Carot’s more recognized painting is “Interrupted Reading.”  The painting consists of a woman staring into space with a book in her left hand.  The woman is not reading the book, but instead staring into space.  Some people might believe the woman might have a lot on her mind or could be preoccupied with other things.  The woman is slouched over in her chair and looks to be somewhat depressed.  The painting was created in the 1800’s, which was known as a time of depression.  This lead me to believe the woman was depressed in the painting.

At the beginning of my research it was very hard to find credible sources.  After time, finding credible sources became easier.  After researching several different encyclopedias I was able to use evidence to support my research and statements.

Sources:

Conlon, James. “Men Reading Women Reading Interpreting Images of Women Readers.” Frontiers: A Journal of Women Studies 26.2 (2005) 37-38.

Author: Jean Baptiste Camille Carot

Source: Art Institute of Chicago Museum Studies, Vol. 26, No. 1

Published by: The Art Institute of Chicago