Mademoiselle Bécat at the Café des Ambassadeurs, Paris
Original title: Mademoiselle Bécat at the Café des Ambassadeurs, Paris
kurzbeschreibung
Edgar Degas made this lithograph in 1877–78. It depicts the singer Mademoiselle Bécat at the Café des Ambassadeurs in Paris. The print exists in only one state; the image measures 20.6 x 19.4 cm, the sheet 34.3 x 27.3 cm. No credit line or dimensions are provided.
Description
Mademoiselle Bécat appears in the foreground, her upper body leaning slightly forward, her gaze turned to the left. She wears a long, light-colored dress, her hair carefully arranged, her hands slightly raised. Behind her a window opens onto a night sky with stars; hanging lanterns and chandeliers are visible. Gray tones dominate the motif, underscoring the monochromatic character of the lithograph. Light falling from outside clearly highlights the singer's silhouette and the outlines of the lanterns.
Context
This lithograph was created for the portfolio 'Le Café Concert', published in 1877–78. The Café des Ambassadeurs on the Avenue des Champs-Élysées was a well-known variety theater where Bécat performed as a singer. During those years Degas was deeply engaged with Parisian nightlife and with capturing singers and dancers. An earlier gouache sketch of the same subject served as the model.
Impact
An intimate, nocturnal mood arises from the interplay of light and shadow. Despite the seemingly simple execution, the singer appears present and in motion. The monochromatic approach draws attention to the contours and gestures of the figure.
Technique
Executed as a lithograph in the only state, printed in black on paper. The process allows for fine tonal gradations, which are used here to create the lighting effect. At 34.3 x 27.3 cm, the sheet is significantly larger than the image area—a ratio typical for prints of the period.
AI-generated description text
Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)