The artwork “At the Ball” was created by the artist Berthe Morisot in 1875, employing the medium of oil on canvas. Measuring 52 by 65 centimeters, this painting is an exemplar of the Impressionist movement and can be categorized within the portrait genre. The artwork has been housed at the Musée Marmottan Monet in Paris, France, becoming a part of its illustrious collection.
The painting in question depicts a young woman at what appears to be a social gathering or event. Her attire suggests a formal occasion, adorned in a dress with a broad neckline that exudes the style of the period. The color palette consists of soft, pastel hues, with gentle strokes that capture the light and atmosphere characteristic of Impressionist works. The woman is holding an elegantly designed fan, a common accessory in high society during that era, which is partially open and positioned near her face. The fan and her attire are detailed with floral accents, which add vibrancy to the composition.
The young woman’s expression is contemplative, perhaps hinting at a moment of introspection amidst the revelry. Morisot’s brushwork, with its emphasis on the play of light and shadow, simultaneously defines the subject’s features and contributes to the overall fleeting impression of the scene—an endeavor to encapsulate the essence of the moment rather than to articulate with precision. Such treatment of the subject matter is consistent with the aims of Impressionist artists, who sought to capture their immediate impressions of the world around them with a focus on the effects of light and color over line and detail.
