People Reading Books

This painting by Edward Penfield, titled "People Reading Books," exemplifies his characteristic style, which blends elements of Art Nouveau with flat, poster-like aesthetics common in early 20th-century illustration. The painting captures a scene of several individuals deeply engrossed in reading their books. Each person appears distinct in both attire and posture, conveying a sense of individuality and different social classes or styles, which might also subtly reference varying tastes in literature or intellectual pursuits.On the left side, a male figure is dressed in a grey suit, sporting a hat typical of the era, suggesting a formal or professional occupation. Adjacent to him, two female figures are depicted, each with elaborate hats and engaged in their reading material. Their presence and fashion suggest that the setting might be a public space, possibly a train or waiting area, where people from different backgrounds converge.To the right, another distinguished-looking gentleman in a dark coat and bowler hat holds his book prominently, a cane in his other hand, indicating a gentleman perhaps of leisure or higher societal standing. The use of vibrant, contrasting colors for the books and subtle yet distinct backgrounds emphasizes the focal point of reading while also providing a sense of depth and differentiated personal spaces.Penfield's work often reflected and subtly commented on contemporary society, and this painting could be seen as an observation of literacy, leisure, and the democratization of reading at the turn of the century.