Trying Them OnAI

This delightful painting from 1890 shows two women in a simple bedroom, and despite its modest subject matter, it made quite an impression when first exhibited at the Royal Academy in London. Albert Chevallier Tayler painted this scene early in his career, and it demonstrates his skill at capturing the textures of fabrics and the subtle interactions between people. The standing woman, likely a maid or seamstress, appears to be showing off newly made or altered garments to her companion, who lounges on a pink-striped sofa with an appraising eye.

Tayler was associated with the Newlyn School, a group of artists in Cornwall who embraced a naturalistic style influenced by French plein-air painting. Though many Newlyn artists focused on outdoor scenes of fishing life, Tayler often preferred interior settings and the quiet dignity of working-class women going about their daily routines. The painting's honest portrayal of a modest domestic space, complete with worn furniture and simple decorations, reflects the Victorian interest in social realism. The title "Trying Them On" suggests the women are examining new stockings or boots, a small luxury that would have required careful consideration and perhaps some friendly advice before making a purchase or accepting the work.