The artwork titled “Interior” was created by Edgar Degas between 1868 and 1869. It exemplifies the technique of grisaille and is connected to the Impressionism art movement. Measuring 32 x 45 inches (81.28 x 114.3 cm), this piece is categorized under the interior genre and is housed in the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
“Interior” presents a dimly lit indoor scene, characterized by a nuanced interplay of light and shadow, which is a hallmark of Degas’ exploration of intimate spaces. The artwork portrays two figures: a female dressed in a white garment, seated and appearing distraught or deep in thought, and a male figure standing near a bed, cloaked in shadows, with an inscrutable expression. The room itself is decorated with floral wallpaper and contains a few pieces of furniture, including a table with an illuminated lamp casting a warm glow on an open case, possibly hinting at the narrative’s emotional undertone. The diffuse illumination accentuates the contemplative mood and conveys a palpable tension or unresolved narrative within the space. Artistic elements such as the reflective mirror, the crumpled garment on the floor, and the stark contrast between the figures and their surroundings contribute to an atmosphere of psychological complexity, inviting viewers to ponder the story unfolding within the confines of this domestic interior.
