The artwork, “Madame Corot, the Artist’s Mother, Born Marie Francoise Oberson,” painted by Camille Corot circa 1834-1835, is an oil on canvas portrait exemplifying the Realism movement. Currently housed in the Scottish National Gallery in Edinburgh, UK, the portrait captures a moment of serene poise, offering a glimpse into the life of Corot’s mother.
In the artwork, Madame Corot is depicted sitting on a chair, her upper body turned slightly to the right. She dons a voluminous blue dress with meticulously crafted puffed sleeves, emblematic of the fashion of that era. Her white bonnet, adorned with lace and tied under her chin with lavender ribbons, frames her face. The soft texture of her gloves and the small brooch near her collar add elegance to her composed demeanor. She holds a white handkerchief on her lap with her left hand, while her right hand rests gently on her midsection. The background is plain, directing the viewer’s attention to her expressive yet calm facial features and the details of her attire.