The artwork, titled “Eva Gonzales,” was created by Edouard Manet in 1878 in France. Rendered using pastel on paper, this portrait measures 42 x 33 cm and belongs to the Realism art movement. Presently, the piece resides in a private collection.
The artwork features a delicately executed portrait of a woman, characterized by a soft and somewhat ethereal quality. The technique of pastel on paper imparts a gentle, muted color palette. The subject’s face is rendered with smooth transitions of shading, highlighting her calm expression and slightly upward gaze. The intricate detailing in her hair and the subtle variations in skin tones reflect Manet’s meticulous attention to detail and his mastery of the medium. The background is kept understated, ensuring that the focus remains on the serene and contemplative visage of the woman, embodying the essence of Realism and the artist’s intention to capture genuine human presence.