Fair quiet and sweet rest Luke Fildes (1844-1927)

The canvas presents a tranquil scene centered around a small boat gliding across calm water. A group of four figures occupies the vessel, their postures and interactions suggesting a moment of leisure and idyllic harmony. The composition is horizontally oriented, emphasizing the breadth of the waterway and the surrounding landscape.
Here we see a young man positioned at the stern, actively rowing while simultaneously playing a stringed instrument – likely a mandolin or lute – with considerable skill. His gaze is directed downwards, focused on his music, yet he appears relaxed and comfortable in his task. To his left reclines another young man, seemingly lost in thought, with one hand resting casually upon the boat’s edge. He embodies an air of contemplative repose.
Two women are situated towards the bow of the craft. One stands upright, her expression serene and directed outwards, as if observing the scenery. Her attire – a flowing gown and elaborate hat – indicates a certain social standing. Beside her sits another woman, who appears to be singing along with the music; her head is tilted slightly downwards, suggesting engagement in the performance.
The background is densely populated by lush vegetation – trees and foliage rendered in varying shades of green – creating an impression of seclusion and natural abundance. A swan swims gracefully alongside the boat, its presence reinforcing the overall sense of peace and beauty. The water itself is depicted with a subtle interplay of light and shadow, reflecting the surrounding greenery and contributing to the painting’s atmospheric quality.
Subtly, the scene conveys notions of courtship and romantic dalliance. The musical accompaniment, combined with the picturesque setting and the presence of young women, hints at a carefully orchestrated moment of shared enjoyment. The differing postures of the figures – the active musician, the contemplative observer, the attentive singer, and the outward-gazing woman – suggest distinct personalities within this group, yet they are united by their participation in this tranquil experience.
The artist’s attention to detail – from the rendering of the foliage to the delicate folds of the womens garments – underscores a desire to capture not only the visual appearance of the scene but also its emotional resonance. The painting evokes a sense of nostalgia for an idealized past, one characterized by gentle pleasures and harmonious relationships with nature.