278 'AT THE RACES'
by Francisco Miralles (1848-1901)

This outstanding picture was painted at a race-course just outside Paris, possibly Chantilly, at a time when Paris was considered to be the centre of fashion. Women of all ages attended such races dressed in their very latest and most elegant creations. They would gamble more on their personal appearance than on the horses.

There to be seen by all, competition between these fabulously dressed ladies was immense. Even on a grey day, the many different and shimmering colours would make up for the lack of sunshine. This was very much part of the entertainment on race days.

This young woman poses in an eye-catching red and black outfit. Her own natural curves are enhanced by the fashionable bustle built into the dress (this must have made sitting down so awkward!), and her small waist is accentuated by the tight wide black waistband with ends which fall gracefully down the skirt. Her saucy black hat is softened by the blue gauze, blowing in the breeze. Under it, her face seems immovable but pensive, gazing into the distance. She is aloof to the two women seated on the ground ..... is this because she is shy? Why does she ignore the umbrella dropped on the ground ... is she lost in dream or is it a pose? Perhaps she has caught sight of someone special?

We will just have to enjoy speculating as much as we enjoy looking at this stunning painting.

Francisco Miralles was born in Valencia in 1848. He studied in Madrid, becoming a painter of portraits and figurative works. He lived in Paris and frequently exhibited at the Salon from 1875 until 1896.