Study for “Madame Théodore Gobillard” (Yves Morisot) (1869, Met-Objekt 490)
Original title: Study for “Madame Théodore Gobillard” (Yves Morisot)
kurzbeschreibung
This 1869 drawing by Edgar Degas served as a preparatory study for the portrait of Yves Morisot, who later married Théodore Gobillard. Rendered in graphite on buff tracing paper, it captures the seated woman in a calm pose.
Description
A seated woman appears with a wavy collar on her dress and her hair loosely braided. She looks to the left. Behind her, a chair or seating is hinted in the same drawn manner. Gray tones dominate the monochrome sheet; even light brings out contours and shadows.
Context
In 1869 Degas turned increasingly to portrait drawing, often choosing people from his family and circle. Yves Morisot, sister of the painter Berthe Morisot, was close to Degas artistically. The squared grid on the paper indicates that the drawing was intended for transfer to another format.
Impact
The precise line and the sitter's quiet, pensive pose draw the eye. The restrained gray tonality creates an intimate atmosphere focused entirely on the person.
Technique
Graphite on buff tracing paper, mounted on laid paper, with a squared grid for scaled transfer. The pencil is handled carefully; fine hatching models the shadows.
AI-generated description text
Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)