1862
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
The Little Girl (Le petite fille) is a 1862 ink by Edouard Manet, a Impressionism work, held at National Gallery of Art.
This sketch shows a woman from behind, holding a child close. Her dress is long and flowing, with quick, sketchy lines. The background is almost empty, just a few loose strokes to suggest movement. Notice how the artist used sharp, fast marks to draw the fabric—it looks almost like scribbles. This wasn’t meant to be smooth; it’s rough and alive. Next, check out etching to see how artists like Manet made prints with needles and acid.
Édouard Manet didn’t have much time to make his mark—he died at 51—but he used every year.
See the richer artist page
