image 195 National Museum of Women in the Arts

The composition presents a scene of leisurely domesticity, centered around three women seated at a round table set for tea in what appears to be a well-maintained garden. The figures are dressed in elaborate Edwardian attire – long dresses with high collars and wide-brimmed hats that partially obscure their faces. Their posture is formal yet relaxed, suggesting an atmosphere of polite conversation and comfortable familiarity.
The arrangement of the women around the table creates a sense of intimacy and shared experience. One woman pours tea from a silver teapot, while the others hold delicate china cups. The details of the tableware – the patterned tablecloth, the ornate teacups – contribute to the overall impression of refinement and affluence.
Behind the group, a house is visible, partially obscured by climbing vines and lush foliage. This backdrop reinforces the sense of a secure and privileged existence. A profusion of roses and other flowers in the garden adds vibrancy and visual interest to the scene, evoking themes of beauty, abundance, and natural harmony. The color palette is dominated by soft pastels – creams, pinks, and greens – which further enhance the painting’s gentle and idyllic mood.
Subtly, the work explores notions of femininity and social class within a specific historical context. The womens attire and demeanor suggest adherence to societal expectations for female behavior during the period. Their shared activity – a tea party – represents a ritualized form of socializing among women of similar standing.
The obscured faces of the figures invite speculation about their individual personalities and relationships, adding an element of mystery to the scene. The painting’s overall effect is one of quiet elegance and understated contentment, offering a glimpse into a world of privilege and refined manners.