The artwork titled “On the Sofa,” created in 1871 by artist Berthe Morisot, is executed in watercolor and epitomizes the Impressionist movement. It is a genre painting that resides in the Nationalmuseum located in Stockholm, Sweden. This piece is characteristic of Impressionism, a revolutionary art movement that emerged in the late 19th century, with artists focusing on capturing light, movement, and candid scenes.
In this intimate artwork, Morisot portrays a woman seated on a richly hued sofa, which dominates the composition’s foreground. The woman’s attire suggests a level of informal elegance, and her posture, relaxed yet attentive, adds to the intimate nature of the scene. Her gaze appears to be directed at an object she holds in her hands, possibly a fan or a set of cards, indicating a moment of leisure or contemplation.
The use of light and shadow on her figure and surroundings is subtle, reinforcing the impressionistic technique of capturing fleeting moments and the effects of light. Sparse yet deliberate brushstrokes define the sofa and the subject’s form, imbuing the work with a sense of immediacy and impulsiveness. The soft, almost unfinished background provides a delicate contrast to the more defined elements in the foreground, making the figure the clear focal point of the composition.
The color palette is refined yet muted with instances of warmer tones that complement the scene’s overall serenity. Overall, Morisot’s “On the Sofa” embodies the quintessence of Impressionist ideals, conveying an everyday scene with an intimate touch, sensitivity to light, and a preference for capturing life’s spontaneous moments.
