The artwork titled “Self-Portrait with Julie (study)” is by Berthe Morisot and dates back to 1887. Created using oil on canvas, this piece is a fine example of the Impressionism art movement. The genre of the painting is self-portrait, and it is currently held in a private collection. Morisot’s work is known for its light brushwork and soft color palettes that capture the essence of the moment and the interplay of light.
In the artwork, the composition features Morisot herself clad in a dark attire, seated in the immediate foreground, which is characteristic of self-portraits where the artist engages directly with the viewer. Her poised and composed demeanour is central to the piece. Beside her, there appears to be a figure of a child, presumably Julie, softly rendered and somewhat blurred, which creates an intimate and private glimpse into the artist’s life. The background suggests an interior setting, with loosely rendered items and hints of structural elements, such as a window pane or perhaps a balcony, in keeping with the spontaneous nature of Impressionist painting. The overall execution employs rapid brushstrokes and a muted color scheme, with a focus on the play of light and shadows, capturing a fleeting moment reflective of Morisot’s style and the ideals of the Impressionist movement.
