Artwork
Young Woman Dressing Herself
Young Woman Dressing Herself is a pastel drawing by the Impressionist artist Edgar Degas. It dates from 1885 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
- Inscription
- Inscribed:lower right: Degas / 85
About this work
Overview
Young Woman Dressing Herself is a 1885 drawing by Edgar Degas, a French artist known for his realistic depictions of everyday life. The work is executed in pastel over charcoal on tan paper mounted on board.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing shows a young woman standing in front of a mirror, adjusting her clothing. The calm expression and gentle movements convey a sense of intimacy, capturing a private moment.
Technique & Style
Degas used soft pastel colors to create a quiet mood. The medium allowed for subtle, nuanced coloration, contributing to the drawing's intimate atmosphere.
Context
Degas's work is associated with Impressionism, though he preferred the term realist. Unlike many Impressionist artists, Degas focused on indoor, everyday scenes rather than outdoor landscapes.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Born Hilaire-Germain-Edgar De Gas on 19 July 1834 in Paris, Edgar Degas came from an affluent banking family with aristocratic roots and spent his childhood among the cultivated circles of the French capital.
