Madame Théodore Gobillard (Yves Morisot, 1838–1893)
Original title: Madame Théodore Gobillard (Yves Morisot, 1838–1893)
kurzbeschreibung
Unlike many portraits of women from its era, this 1869 canvas by Edgar Degas presents Madame Théodore Gobillard, née Yves Morisot, not in a formal pose but as a pensive seated figure. The oil on canvas captures her in a dark dress with a scarf, positioned before a window that reveals trees outside.
Description
She has settled onto a sofa, her gaze turned to the left, her hair gathered into a bun. Around her neck, a striking scarf drapes over a dark dress. Behind her, a window opens onto green trees, while to the left a section of wall decoration with a frame comes into view. Brown tones and gray dominate the subdued palette.
Context
The picture was made in 1869 in France. Yves Morisot was a sister of the painter Berthe Morisot, with whom Degas was friends. Belonging to the artist's early portraits, it dates from before his shift toward pastel and studies of movement. The realistic style betrays the influence of photography and Japanese prints.
Impact
A calm, intimate atmosphere emanates from this view, inviting reflection. Because the natural light and simple arrangement avoid any distraction, attention settles entirely on the person.
Technique
Oil on canvas was used, with visible brushstrokes and layers shaping the surface. Earthy, restrained colors reinforce the realistic impression. The handling reveals Degas's early engagement with light and texture.
AI-generated description text
Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)