The artwork “Reading” was created by the artist Berthe Morisot in 1888. It is an oil painting on canvas that belongs to the Impressionism movement, specifically classified as a genre painting. This piece reflects the style and aesthetic qualities that are characteristic of the Impressionist movement, which was known for its loose brushwork, depiction of light, and scenes from daily life.
In this painting, we observe a young girl engrossed in reading a book. She is seated comfortably, presumably in an indoor setting given the presence of a window that frames a glimpse of the outside world. The background features lush green foliage, suggesting a garden or a plant-filled room that bathes the scene in a natural and serene atmosphere. The girl’s attire and the soft, hazy quality of the light hint at the intimacy and calmness of the moment captured by Morisot. The brushstrokes are quick and expressive, with the use of light and shade creating a lively texture that evokes the impression of a fleeting moment. Berthe Morisot’s signature is visible at the bottom right, providing authentication of her authorship.
