Naples Ballerina in Copper Autumn Light

Copper-toned light washes over the weathered dignity of a retired ballerina standing beside a Neapolitan canal. Her grey bun sits tight against a skull with elegant bone structure, catching the final glow before nightfall. Raindrops from a brief sun shower glisten on her dark coat and the wet stone wall behind her. Autumn leaves in shades of russet and ochre drift onto the canal water, against the deep blue of the channel. The light carves shadows across her cheekbones, highlighting the texture of her skin and the fine lines of experience. One raindrop rests on the brim of a nearby hat, reflecting the copper sky above the water.