Woman in the Tub (1884) by Edgar Degas

Woman in the Tub - Edgar Degas - 1884

Artwork Information

TitleWoman in the Tub
ArtistEdgar Degas
Date1884
Mediumpastel,paper
Art MovementImpressionism
Current LocationPrivate Collection

About Woman in the Tub

The artwork entitled “Woman in the Tub” was created in 1884 by the artist Edgar Degas, a prominent figure in the Impressionism movement. The medium used for this piece is pastel on paper, which was a favored technique of Degas, particularly for capturing delicate and ephemeral moments. The artwork falls within the genre of nude painting, referred to in French as “nu”. Although once part of a private collection, the details of the artwork’s current location are not specified. The personal and intimate scene depicted is common in Degas’ oeuvre, putting a spotlight on the candid aspects of daily life.

“Woman in the Tub” showcases a female figure at her bath, captured in an intimate and ordinary moment. The subject is seen from behind, bending over inside a circular basin, with her back and nape prominently visible. She is engaged in the act of washing, her body language suggesting movement and the mundane nature of the ritual. To the right, a large white cloth or towel hangs, providing a contrast to the warm tones of her skin and the surrounding environment. There is a small pitcher placed in the foreground, hinting at the accoutrements of her bathing routine. Degas, known for his exploration of color, light, and complex composition, has used the pastel medium to create soft but rich textures, allowing the viewer to almost feel the warmth of the scene. The loose and expressive strokes exemplify the impressionistic style, evoking a sense of transience and the fleeting nature of the private moment being observed.

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