The artwork “Mademoiselle Malo,” created by the renowned artist Edgar Degas circa 1877, is a captivating example of the Impressionist movement. With pastel as its medium, the piece is a portrait that measures 52.2 by 41.1 centimeters. It is currently housed in the Barber Institute of Fine Arts, located in Birmingham, UK.
“Mademoiselle Malo” is depicted with a sophisticated and serene demeanor, demonstrating Degas’s deft handling of pastel to capture the subtleties of human expression and form. The subject’s gaze is indirect, adding a sense of introspection to the portrait. The luminous skin tone of the sitter contrasts with the dark attire, drawing attention to the face as the focal point of the composition. The background is executed with broad, sweeping strokes of warm color, providing a vivid yet unobtrusive setting that complements the subject’s refined features. Degas’s signature can be seen in the lower section of the artwork, which adds a personal touch to this intimate portrayal of Mademoiselle Malo. This piece evidences the artist’s interest in capturing the essence of his subjects through the innovative techniques that defined the Impressionist era.
