Artwork

Girl Picking Cherries

Girl Picking Cherries, by Berthe Morisot, chalk, 1891
Girl Picking Cherries, by Berthe Morisot, chalk, 1891

Girl Picking Cherries is a chalk drawing by the Impressionist artist Berthe Morisot. It dates from 1891 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription
Inscribed:lower right stamped in black: Berthe Morisot

About this work

Overview

Girl Picking Cherries is a 1891 drawing by Berthe Morisot, executed in red chalk with stumping on light brown paper. The work exemplifies Morisot's Impressionist approach, characterized by loose, expressive lines and blended textures.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing portrays a young girl absorbed in the everyday activity of picking cherries. The depiction emphasizes the simplicity and intimacy of the moment, reflecting Impressionism's focus on ordinary life.

Technique & Style

Morisot employed red chalk with stumping to achieve soft, smudged lines and a warm, peachy background. The technique of lightly rubbing the chalk created a gentle, loose appearance, typical of her Impressionist style.

History & Provenance

Created in 1891, the drawing is part of Morisot's later work. Her association with the Impressionist movement began after exhibiting in the Paris Salon (1864-1873) and joining the first independent Impressionist exhibition in 1874.

Context

Girl Picking Cherries is consistent with Morisot's thematic focus on everyday scenes, particularly those featuring women and children in quiet, domestic, or natural settings.

Partial Sketch of a Boy in Knickers
Partial Sketch of a Boy in Knickers, American 19th Century

Artist & collection

Portrait of Berthe Morisot

Artist

Berthe Morisot

Berthe Marie Pauline Morisot was a French painter, printmaker and a member of the circle of painters in Paris who became known as the Impressionists.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted Girl Picking Cherries?

Girl Picking Cherries was painted by Berthe Morisot in 1891.

Where can I see Girl Picking Cherries?

Girl Picking Cherries is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Girl Picking Cherries?

Girl Picking Cherries is associated with Impressionism.

Can I buy a print of Girl Picking Cherries?

Museum-quality prints of Girl Picking Cherries are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.