Based on its vigorous and free brushwork, brilliant palette, interest in sunlight and overall subject, Ilene Susan Fort dates Domestic Interior Scene from Bridgman's 1890's period. A painting dated 1889 of a single figure sewing in a pose similar to the figure at the far right was once part of the Hearst Collection, and records show a stylistic likeness between ours and a painting of an Egyptian dancer that has been dated circa 1903 which demonstrates a similar carefree handling of sheer drapery. In addition, the expressions and attitudes of the women are consistent with Bridgman's works of this period before his work became overly stylized. The composition betrays Bridgman's continued study of his Orientalist subjects in their daily activities with its keen attention to detail.

We are grateful to Ilene Susan Fort for her assistance in preparing this catalogue entry.