End of the season William Merritt Chase (1849-1916)

The composition presents a scene on a beach, dominated by a collection of folded chairs and a solitary figure. The horizon line is positioned relatively high in the frame, emphasizing the expanse of the sea and sky. A muted palette prevails; greens and yellows define the grassy foreground, transitioning to blues and greys for the water and overcast sky.
Here we see a man, dressed in what appears to be a simple coat and hat, meticulously attending to one of the chairs. His posture suggests focused labor, perhaps a sense of quiet diligence or resignation. The arrangement of the chairs is chaotic yet deliberate; they are stacked and scattered across the sand, creating a visual density that draws the eye. Their dark tones contrast sharply with the lighter hues of the beach and sky, further accentuating their presence.
The sea stretches out to the horizon, where a distant vessel can be discerned. The water’s surface is rendered with loose brushstrokes, conveying movement and atmospheric perspective. The overall impression is one of stillness tinged with melancholy.
Subtly, the painting evokes themes of transience and closure. The chairs, clearly associated with leisure or entertainment, are now stored away, suggesting the end of a season – perhaps summer, or a period of activity. The solitary figure’s work implies a necessary task, a return to order after a time of revelry. Theres an underlying sense of solitude; the man is alone amidst the remnants of what was once lively and populated.
The artist’s use of light and color contributes to this mood. The subdued tones create a feeling of quietude, while the loose brushwork conveys a sense of impermanence. The scene isnt overtly dramatic, but rather invites contemplation on themes of time, labor, and the cyclical nature of life.