img266 Jacques Joseph Tissot (1836-1902)

The painting presents a scene of leisure and domesticity set within a verdant outdoor space. Here we observe a young girl actively engaged in a game involving a ball and what appears to be a croquet mallet. Her stance is dynamic; she leans forward, poised to strike, suggesting an energetic involvement in the activity. The attire – a white blouse with a dark skirt and a wide-brimmed hat – indicates a certain level of social standing and adherence to Victorian fashion norms.
In the background, two other figures are visible beneath the sheltering branches of a large tree. They appear relaxed and absorbed in their own pursuits; one reclines while the other sits attentively nearby. This arrangement creates a sense of depth within the composition and establishes a hierarchy of activity – the girl’s energetic game contrasting with the quiet repose of those in the shade.
A small, fluffy dog occupies the foreground, its posture suggesting playful anticipation or perhaps a desire to join the game. Scattered around it are various objects: balls, what seem to be croquet hoops, and a wicker basket, further reinforcing the theme of recreation and outdoor enjoyment.
The artist’s use of light is significant; the scene is bathed in warm sunlight that illuminates the foreground figures while casting areas of shadow beneath the tree. This creates a sense of atmosphere and contributes to the overall feeling of tranquility. The brushwork appears loose and impressionistic, particularly evident in the rendering of foliage and the dappled effect of sunlight on the grass.
Subtly, the painting conveys an idealized vision of childhood and leisure within a privileged social context. It speaks to notions of domestic harmony and the importance of recreation during a period marked by rapid industrialization and societal change. The composition’s balance between activity and repose suggests a carefully constructed narrative about the pleasures of simple pursuits and the value placed on familial bonds.