“Young Girl with a Fan” is an exquisite artwork by Berthe Morisot created in 1893. This oil on canvas painting measures 54 by 65 centimeters and is a fine example of the Impressionist movement. As a genre painting, it portrays an everyday scene or theme. Currently, the artwork resides in a private collection.
The artwork captures the delicacy and fleeting nature characteristic of Impressionist works. It depicts a young girl gazing off to the side, her expression contemplative and serene. She holds a fan, which is adorned with floral motifs, suggesting an air of femininity and refinement. The fan, being a standout element, draws the eye with its warm tones and the impression of light dancing off its surface.
Morisot employs swift, visible brushstrokes that imbue the piece with a sense of vivacity and movement, despite the subject’s stillness. Her mastery of color is evident in the harmonious blend of hues that suggest depth and texture in the girl’s attire and the surrounding space. The background is realized in a series of quick, gestural strokes that create a vibrant yet indistinct setting, focusing attention on the young girl and her fan.
Overall, Morisot’s artwork is a reflection of the Impressionist preoccupation with light, color, and everyday elegance. The painting resonates with the viewer due to its apparent simplicity and the complex emotional depth captured within the young subject’s demeanor.
