“Thérèse,” crafted by the artist Balthus in 1938, is an oil painting on cardboard belonging to the art movement known as Expressionism. This portrait measures 100.3 x 81.3 cm, portraying a young girl in a contemplative pose.
In the artwork, a young girl, identified as Thérèse, is depicted seated in an armchair with a relaxed demeanor and a somewhat pensive expression. She is dressed in a red jacket and dark skirt, with one leg crossed over the other, her foot resting on the chair. The setting comprises muted tones, highlighting her thoughtful gaze and casual posture. The backdrop features simple, unadorned elements, ensuring that the focus remains on the subject. The artist’s use of light and shadow, along with the naturalistic detailing, evokes a sense of introspection and stillness, typical of Expressionist portraits.
