Sunderland Museum’s collections include plaited grass necklaces from Tahiti very similar to those shown in this painting. The figures in this painting, however, look like Ancient Greek or Roman maidens rather than Tahitians. Many painters adapted their subjects to suit the taste of their clients.

Chevalier was born in Russia and visited many parts of the world, finally settling in London. During his travels Chevalier made studies of ‘exotic’ ways of life, and used these studies as inspiration for paintings.

Provenance: Bequeathed by John Dickinson, 1908

Object description
Type: Easel painting
Location: Sunderland Museum & Winter Garden, Tyne & Wear
Material: Oil on canvas
Artist: Nicholas Chevalier (1828-1902)
Date: 1883

Image Details
Date: 20 April 2026
Camera body: iPhone Xs
Lens: Telephoto Camera 52mm ƒ/2.4
Focal Length: 52mm
Aperture: ƒ/2.4
Shutter Speed: 1/50s
ISO: 500
Licensing: Image of a Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens asset. This image cannot be licensed.