Lantern Magic – “Carnation, Lily, Lily, Rose”

Are you familiar with this painting by John Singer Sargent titled Carnation, Lily, Lily, Rose (oil on canvas, 1885-86)?Autumn, twilight, setting sun, fragrant flowers, multi-colored white dresses, children lighting lanterns…my mind escapes into this image and I can almost smell those intoxicating lilies.
A few years ago, in my effort to learn painting techniques, I started a study of this painting.  Here’s as far as I got with the underpainting, along with the notes I wrote on the backside of the paper:

I’m giving these to you small.

The theme of lanterns at evening gatherings showed up in the paintings of many other artists.

 

Here’s a few more to feast your eyes and maybe set your mind to wandering in that warm glow.

Luther Van Gorter 1895

Julio Vila Prades  La ni a de la lampara
Warwick Goble from The Star Lovers

To further my escape I spent a few minutes one night last week setting up a few lighted candles in metal lanterns  and placing them near my white rose-bush (Iceberg Rose) now in full bloom.  Here’s my best photos:
When an idea enters my mind, of something I want to try, I play out the idea.  These photos were one of those experimental moments.  Enjoy!

And here’s one more lantern painting:

Percy Gibbs “River Promenade”

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