This remarkable 1887 oil on canvas portrait by Anglo-Spanish artist Alfred Mendoza presents a bold and unconventional image of Victorian womanhood. The painting depicts a young woman—believed to be the artist's sister Elizabeth—smoking a cigarette with quiet confidence, a striking and progressive subject for the era.
Elizabeth, married to a cigar manufacturer, lived in London's East End among the vibrant Jewish immigrant community of the late 19th century. Mendoza captures her in a moment of introspection, her steady gaze directed away from the viewer, suggesting both contemplation and self-possession. The act of smoking—rarely depicted in female portraiture of the Victorian period—imbues the work with modernity and subtle rebellion against strict social conventions.
The palette features warm, earthy tones with rich browns and ochres dominating the composition. Mendoza's academic training is evident in the refined modeling of the face and hands, with subtle lighting that illuminates her profile and draws attention to the delicate gesture of holding the cigarette. The neutral, darkened background maintains focus entirely on the figure, creating psychological depth and intimacy.
Signed and dated in the lower left corner, this painting showcases Mendoza's skill as a portraitist while offering commentary on identity, modern womanhood, and quiet defiance during an era of rigid social expectations.
About the Artist:
Alfred Mendoza (active 1880s-1920s) was a painter and sculptor of Spanish-Sephardic Jewish descent, born in Spitalfields, London. He exhibited at the prestigious Royal Academy in 1887 and created notable portraits including one of King George V in 1917. His career spanned London, France, South America, and Bournemouth.
Remarkably, Alfred was the great-grandson of legendary boxer Daniel Mendoza (1764-1836) and related to actor Peter Sellers. His son Montague Mendoza (1898-1973) became a notable comic artist under the pseudonyms Flam and Flambo.
Artist: Alfred Mendoza (1860-1925).
Signed and dated in the lower left.
Medium: Oil on canvas.
Condition: Very good condition.
Dimensions: 51 x 41 cm. / 20 x 16 in.
Frame: 71 x 61 cm. / 28 x 24 in. Very good condition.
Provenance: Ottawa, Canada.
