The artwork “The Reflection” is a portrait painted by Gustave Courbet in 1864. This work, reflecting the Realism art movement, measures 54 x 45 cm. The genre of the artwork is clear; it is a portrait that captures human likeness with an emphasis on everyday reality characteristic of Realist philosophy.
In “The Reflection”, Courbet presents a three-quarters profile portrait of a woman. The subject’s gaze is directed away from the viewer, focused internally or on an unseen reflection, which adds a contemplative quality to the piece. She is adorned with a delicately ruffled dress that frames her décolletage, adding a softness to the otherwise rich, earthy tones of the painting. Her hair is partially up, with some locks cascading down her neck, and a large white bow is visible sitting atop her head, accentuating the era’s feminine ideal.
Courbet’s brushwork is tactile and vigorous, imbuing the artwork with a sense of texture and movement. The background is muted and nondescript, which along with the subdued palette, draws the observer’s attention primarily to the subject herself. The play of light and shadow across the woman’s face and attire demonstrates a masterful understanding of form and depth. Essential to the Realist tradition, Courbet avoids idealization, presenting the woman in an authentic, intimate manner that resonates with the viewer through its grounded and palpable humanity.
