A Woman Ironing
Original title: A Woman Ironing
kurzbeschreibung
Edgar Degas turned to an ordinary Parisian scene in his 1873 oil painting 'A Woman Ironing.' On the canvas, a woman stands with focused attention, smoothing a cloth on a table. The subject fits within Degas's broader engagement with urban life.
Description
Standing at a table, the woman guides an iron over fabric. Her arms are caught in a lively pose. She wears a dark top and a light apron, creating a contrast. Garments hang from a rack in the background. Muted colors, soft light, and clearly visible brushstrokes define the view.
Context
During the 1870s, Degas increasingly turned to scenes of everyday city life. Women ironing recur in his work and were later varied in different versions. The picture was made before the first Impressionist exhibition in 1874, in which Degas took part.
Impact
The subdued coloring and calm mood give the subject a quiet dignity. The visible brushwork and the movement of the arms make the figure seem alive and almost sketch-like.
Technique
Executed in oil on canvas, Degas uses thickly applied paint. The brush marks remain visible and shape the surface texture. Subtle tonal gradations produce the soft light.
AI-generated description text
Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)