The artwork titled “Two Women Drinking Bocks” by Edouard Manet, created in 1878 in Paris, France, is a significant piece within the Impressionism movement. Rendered in pastel on paper, it exemplifies genre painting by depicting ordinary scenes from contemporary life. This particular artwork is housed in the Burrell Collection in Glasgow, UK.
In the artwork, Manet presents two women seated closely together, engaging in the evident enjoyment of bock beers. The piece captures a moment of social interaction, characterized by its casual and intimate nature. Both women are adorned in fashionable attire, typical of the period, with hats that slightly obscure their faces, adding an element of anonymity. The use of pastel brings a softness to the composition, with fluid lines and subtle color transitions that highlight the Impressionistic focus on light and atmosphere. The background is softly blurred, ensuring that the viewer’s attention remains fixed on the central figures. The scene is rendered with a sense of immediacy and spontaneity, capturing the casual ambiance of the setting.
