Set in the gardens of the Tuileries, Tissot appears to draw a parallel between autumn's falling leaves, and the passage of time and fading hope.  The title, "Without Dowry," perhaps explains why one soldier in the background is looking admiringly in the direction of the beautiful widow, but also keeping his distance.

Without Dowry
James J. Tissot, 1836-1902, French
Tanenbaum Collection, Toronto
Bridgeman Art Library, London
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