The artwork is a self-portrait by Berthe Morisot, an esteemed artist of the Impressionism movement, created in 1885. This oil on canvas measures 50 by 61 centimeters and is part of the collection at the Musée Marmottan Monet in Paris, France. This genre of artwork, self-portraiture, offers insight into the artist’s self-perception and identity during the period in which it was painted.
The painting depicts the artist herself, employing the loose brushwork and play of light that characterizes the Impressionist style. Morisot’s gaze meets the viewer directly, imparting a sense of immediacy and intimacy. The color palette is predominantly earthy, with a varied range of browns and beiges, punctuated by what appears to be a floral accessory on her garment. The brushstrokes are visible, indicating the movement and speed with which Morisot applied the paint, and the background is executed with swift, less-defined strokes, focusing the viewer’s attention on the figure. The blend of shadows and light suggests volume and depth, while maintaining the overall softness typical of Impressionist paintings. Morisot’s artistry is on full display, capturing not only her physical likeness but also a glimpse of her character through the thoughtful expression and compositional choices.
