Madame Théodore Gobillard (Yves Morisot)
Original title: Madame Théodore Gobillard (Yves Morisot)
kurzbeschreibung
Edgar Degas drew Yves Morisot in 1869, before her marriage to Théodore Gobillard. This pastel on paper, measuring 48 by 30 cm, presents a young woman in profile, her gaze directed to the right.
Description
Two braided plaits and loose curls frame the young woman's face as she looks off to the right. A dark bodice stands out, while light falling from the front draws attention to her features. Behind her, patches of color blur into a suggestion of landscape or interior. The tones remain soft and natural, typical of pastel. In the lower right, the signature 'Degas' appears.
Context
In 1869 Degas turned increasingly to pastel. Yves Morisot was the sister of the painter Berthe Morisot, with whom Degas was friendly. This picture belongs to a series of portraits Degas made for the Morisot family. It is a study, created in an informal setting.
Impact
The gentle coloring and delicate light create an intimate, quiet mood. The precisely rendered braids and curls contrast with the indistinct background areas, bringing the sitter's face to the fore.
Technique
Pastel crayon was applied to paper. Visible strokes and shading reveal the working method of pastel painting. Layered application of color produces soft transitions and fine details. The pastel gives the surface a matte, velvety character.
AI-generated description text
Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)