The artwork, entitled “Young Woman Reclining in Spanish Costume,” was painted by Edouard Manet in 1863 in Paris, France. This oil on canvas painting belongs to the Realism art movement and is currently held in the collection of the Yale University Art Gallery in New Haven, Connecticut, USA. The dimensions of the artwork are 94.7 cm by 113.7 cm, and it falls within the portrait genre.
The artwork depicts a young woman lounging on a plush, red chaise longue with a serene yet contemplative expression. She is adorned in traditional Spanish costume, characterized by a dark jacket and white trousers, which contrasts vividly with the deep red of the sofa. The relaxed posture of the woman, with one arm resting on the chaise and the other on her forehead, suggests a sense of ease and intimacy. Notably, there is a fan in her hand, adding a subtle element of cultural connection to the attire. An orange and a playful cat further animate the foreground, providing a glimpse into the mundane yet captivating scene. The painter’s use of light and shadow captures the texture of both the fabric and the woman’s attire, exemplifying Manet’s mastery in realistic portrayal.
